Flying JetBlue Transatlantic

JetBlue has expanded, and not just with the introduction of their new transatlantic route from New York to London Gatwick, but also with the quality of the service and the modern features on their planes.

A round-trip flight from London Gatwick to New York JFK, purchased a week before departure in October cost just £304. This steal of a price included a carry-on bag and under seat bag neither of which were weighed.

Even though it was an economy ticket, the price was still a great value compared to other airlines. For similar dates, some airlines were charging £330 with only a small carry-on baggage allowance. But thanks to JetBlue's low price, you can fly without breaking the bank.

At The Airport

At the airport, you can check in at a self-service machine. If you have a visa in an old passport or are unvaccinated, you may not be able to use the self-service machine. In this case, you can go to the ticketing agent. If you have a visa and are vaccinated, you should be able to get a ticket without any problems. However, if you are an unvaccinated foreign national, even with proof of a medical exemption, you may not be allowed to board the plane.

If you're told that you need CDC permission to enter the U.S., don't argue with the ticketing agent. Instead, ask to be booked on the next available flight (assuming there are seats available). Keep in mind that JetBlue ticketing agents have discretion when it comes to boarding passengers. If you have a medical exemption, for instance, you'll need to provide sufficient documentation. This should include (but is not limited to) the NHS App and a letter from your doctor. You can find CDC letter guidelines on their website.

Boarding The Plane

Now, depending on the type of plane you travel, you will either turn left and walk through First class, or turn right directly into economy class.

If you are lucky enough to be on the first plane then you'll find yourself walking through First class, which is better known as Mint. This is JetBlue’s new premium cabin where ticket prices can range anywhere from £3000 one way if purchased the night before departure, or just over £1000 if booked a few weeks in advance.

On either side of the plane, each solo passenger has an individual seating area that is almost box shaped, there are of course full amenities including a paper menu.

The JetBlue menu appears to contain more tapas style items, which currently are not vegan friendly. In fact, when compared to the complete meal served in economy class, the Mint options are rather disappointing. Notwithstanding that, Mint class is most definitely eye appealing.

Economy class on the other hand has some very modern perks which can be found through your T.V. screen, specifically the in-flight menu, and ordering service.

The options are clearly displayed with picture, name, and allergen information. One downside to this system however, is the inability to order 2 of the same side order.

In addition, with some of the meal choices only 2 out of the 3 items are vegan. In these instances, you should speak to the flight attendant before the meal service begins, explain the limited vegan options and request an additional item from those suitable for your dietary requirements.

Similarly, if you are not filled halfway through eating, you should inform the flight attendant whilst they are still serving meals so they can come back around with any leftovers. Bear in mind that if you wait too long after the meal service has been completed for health and hygiene reasons it's likely that any remaining food has been disposed of.

Meal service aside, there is so much more to enjoy by being on a beautiful brand new plane, and not just because you can almost taste the freshness in the air, but rather the on-board state of the art entertainment that is so much more than just movies and reality shows. That's because JetBlue is making milestones in the aviation industry by offering all passengers, from Mint, right the way through to economy, free, that's right, completely free, high speed wireless internet.

Can you imagine that? Not only do you get 2 free carry-on items, are seated on a brand new plane, but also get free WiFi, all for the cost of £304. This is most definitely a steal when compared to other airlines, including budget carriers, that give you no free baggage allowance, often the absence of an in-flight meal, absolutely no free Wi-Fi, often include an unnecessary layover for such a short flight, and land in upstate New York or Newark NJ instead of JFK.

One final thing to note, is that if due to an unfortunate set of circumstances your checked luggage is somehow damaged during the flight, before leaving the airport you should visit the JetBlue office in the baggage terminal. There, the staff will take all of the necessary information, including your flight details, name and address, and a photograph of the damage. Then, if there is an appropriately sized suitcase available in storage you will be able to receive an immediate replacement. Alternatively, JetBlue will offer to send a suitcase to the U.S. address where you are staying, however, if for whatever reason that is not conducive, you instead have the option of a monetary voucher for future JetBlue travel.

Now, when you consider all of this information in its entirety, is it no wonder that My Great Holiday recommends traveling JetBlue for your transatlantic flight from London to New York. This is one decision we believe that you will not regret.