Here’s What You Need to Know About JetBlue’s Mint Suites and Mint Studio

JetBlue delivers a brilliant upgrade to business class seats

The phrase “game changer” is over-used when talking about business class seats, but JetBlue’s new Mint Suites and Mint Studio on its transcontinental and transatlantic Airbus A321neo aircraft will change the way people make decisions about travel on these routes. Designed by London-based Acumen in collaboration with Northern Ireland seatmaker Thompson, the seats face inward towards a single aisle, with a full privacy door to create an intimate space. Artful faux-wood paneling is complemented by whimsical seat surrounds, denim-patterned carpets, concrete-effect Polystone lampshades and a vegan-leather seat cushion and cover designed by Tuft & Needle.

Touch and texture are the watchwords for this cabin, whether in the Mint Suites or the two front-row Mint Studios, which take advantage of the space behind the galley. Here, a wide sofa offers partner dining and converts to a bigger bed—although officially only for one passenger.

Bells and whistles abound, from wireless charging to multiple AC and USB sockets and a 17-inch monitor (22 inches in the Mint Studios) offering in-flight entertainment. There are also clever design hacks such as a slot to hold your phone and a tray to store laptops or tablets.

If you’re a JetBlue regular, you’ll feel right at home—and you’ll also notice the impressive look-and-feel upgrades. If you’ve never flown with JetBlue, or if you’ve only experienced its economy product, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. The Suite is probably the best seat any airline offers on the transatlantic routes, and the Studio is world-beating. JetBlue has thrown down the gauntlet for a new generation of design. Your move, other airlines.