When booking a flight with JetBlue Airways, passengers are often presented with multiple fare options, each offering different benefits and features. Two of the most commonly compared fare types are Blue Extra and Blue, both of which are part of JetBlue’s core offerings. While they may seem similar, these fare options come with distinct features that can significantly affect your travel experience, especially when it comes to pricing, flexibility, and added perks. In this blog, we’ll break down the differences between Blue Extra and Blue so you can make an informed choice based on your travel preferences and needs.
1. What is the Blue Fare on JetBlue?
The Blue fare is JetBlue’s most basic fare offering, which is perfect for budget-conscious travelers looking for a no-frills flying experience. While it provides the essentials needed for a comfortable flight, it’s less flexible than some of the other fare options available. Here’s what you can expect with a Blue fare:
Key Features of Blue:
- Seat Selection: With a Blue ticket, you’ll need to pay an additional fee if you want to choose your seat in advance. JetBlue will assign you a seat at no extra charge, but it’s random.
- Free In-Flight Entertainment: As with all JetBlue fares, passengers flying Blue can enjoy free in-flight entertainment, including live TV, movies, and internet access (though Wi-Fi may have limitations or cost depending on the route).
- Complimentary Snacks and Beverages: JetBlue provides complimentary snacks and non-alcoholic beverages on all flights, including those booked under the Blue fare.
- Basic Carry-On Bag: You are allowed one carry-on bag that fits within the airline’s size restrictions (usually up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches).
- One Personal Item: Passengers can also bring one personal item (such as a backpack or laptop bag) for free.
- No Refunds or Changes: Blue tickets are generally non-refundable. If you need to make changes to your travel plans, you will likely be subject to change fees, depending on availability and time of modification.
In essence, Blue offers a budget-friendly, essential flight experience with a few extra fees for seat selection and changes, making it ideal for travelers who don’t mind more rigid travel arrangements.
2. What is the Blue Extra Fare on JetBlue?
The Blue Extra fare is a step up from the basic Blue fare. It’s designed for travelers who want more flexibility, added convenience, and additional benefits without fully upgrading to a higher-tier fare like Blue Plus or Mint. It’s a popular option for those who need more flexibility but don’t want to splurge on premium options.
Key Features of Blue Extra:
- Free First-Checked Bag: One of the major advantages of Blue Extra is the inclusion of a free first checked bag, which can be a significant saving for passengers traveling with more luggage. This is not available with the Blue fare, where you would need to pay for checked luggage.
- More Flexibility with Changes: Blue Extra offers more flexibility than Blue when it comes to making changes to your flight. You can change your flight without paying a change fee (though you will still need to pay any difference in fare), which is a huge benefit for those with uncertain schedules.
- Early Boarding: Passengers with Blue Extra tickets receive early boarding, which means you’ll get on the plane before the majority of passengers. This is particularly useful if you want to secure overhead bin space for your carry-on or simply prefer to settle in sooner.
- Free Seat Selection: Unlike Blue, Blue Extra passengers can select their seats for free at the time of booking, providing the flexibility to pick the seat you want without paying an additional fee.
- Priority Security Screening: Some routes may offer access to priority security lines, allowing Blue Extra passengers to get through the security checkpoint faster.
- Complimentary Snacks and Beverages: Like the Blue fare, Blue Extra also includes complimentary snacks and non-alcoholic drinks during the flight, along with free in-flight entertainment options.
- Carry-On Bag: As with Blue, you are allowed a free carry-on bag as part of your Blue Extra ticket.
While Blue Extra does come with a higher price tag than Blue, it includes a variety of perks that make the additional cost worthwhile for passengers who value flexibility, convenience, and comfort.
3. Key Differences Between Blue and Blue Extra
To help you decide which fare is the best fit for your needs, here’s a summary of the primary differences between Blue and Blue Extra:
| Feature | Blue | Blue Extra |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Lower, budget-friendly option | Higher, more expensive than Blue |
| Seat Selection | Available for a fee | Free seat selection at booking |
| Free Checked Bag | No (must pay for checked bags) | 1 free checked bag |
| Flexibility to Change Flights | Change fees may apply | Free changes (except for fare differences) |
| Boarding Priority | Standard boarding (last group) | Early boarding (better seat choice and overhead bin space) |
| Priority Security Screening | Not included | May include priority screening (depending on route) |
| Carry-On | 1 free carry-on | 1 free carry-on |
| In-Flight Entertainment | Free movies and TV | Free movies and TV |
| Free Snacks and Beverages | Yes | Yes |
4. Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between Blue and Blue Extra largely depends on your travel needs and preferences. Here are some guidelines to help you decide:
- Choose Blue if:
- You are traveling on a budget and don’t mind limited flexibility.
- You don’t have a lot of luggage to check and are comfortable with random seat assignments.
- You want the lowest possible fare for a basic, no-frills flying experience.
- Choose Blue Extra if:
- You value flexibility and may need to change your flight without incurring change fees.
- You want the convenience of free seat selection and priority boarding.
- You have luggage to check and want to avoid paying additional fees for checked bags.
- You’re willing to pay a bit more for added comfort, speed, and convenience during your journey.
5. Conclusion
JetBlue offers two fare options, Blue and Blue Extra, each catering to different types of travelers. If you’re looking for the most affordable option and can live with less flexibility, the Blue fare is your best bet. However, if you need more flexibility, prefer free seat selection, and want to save on baggage fees, Blue Extra provides a much more comfortable and convenient travel experience.
Ultimately, understanding the difference between these fares ensures that you make the right decision based on your needs, whether that’s minimizing your travel costs or enjoying extra perks during your flight. Safe travels!
