JetBlue Airways is expanding its network with its first transatlantic route from New York-JFK to London Heathrow. The route will be operated by its brand-new Airbus A321LR aircraft and began Wednesday evening. Travelers can expect an enhanced inflight experience, complete with build-your-own meal offerings, generous legroom and seat width, free unlimited WiFi, seatback entertainment and more.

JetBlue Launching to London Heathrow

Serving London has been a top priority for JetBlue, and in March 2021, the airline finally solidified 270 slots at Heathrow Airport. Of those, 180 are allocated to New York-JFK service and 90 to Boston service. The carrier is launching its inaugural flight from New York-JFK to London Heathrow on Aug. 11 with a 9:48 p.m. redeye. The flight is expected to land in Heathrow at 10:10 a.m. local time the following day.

While JetBlue is initially flying to Heathrow, the airline has not ruled out serving multiple airports in London and at one point considered launching to the less favorable London Gatwick Airport.

Banking on Business Demand

Although the pandemic has temporarily halted most corporate travel, the New York-London route has high business demand, and JetBlue is banking on these travelers, and high-budget leisure passengers, to fill its Mint cabin. With this expectation in mind, JetBlue has chosen the Airbus A321LR aircraft to run the route, which has been configured with 24 refreshed Mint suites and 114 ‘Core’ seats. The aircraft will also feature two innovative “front-row Mint studios” and 24 Even More Space seats in ‘Core.’

JetBlue is focused on the customer and hopes its unique take on transatlantic travel will make it a top choice for travelers.

Jayne O’Brien, JetBlue’s Head of Marketing and Loyalty, said in a press release, “From generous personal space, to our innovative build-your-own dining concept, every detail has been thoughtfully designed and will be made even better with the attentive service standards that a single-aisle aircraft allows. We know all too well the pain points of international flying – the dreaded center section, the ‘choice’ of assembly-line chicken or beef, and the lack of connectivity. JetBlue is ready to change all that with our take on transatlantic travel where you are well taken care of and fully connected if you want to be.”