Southwest vs JetBlue: Which Airline Is Better in 2026?

Are you also among the travelers who find themselves in a dilemma while choosing from two different airlines? Well, the comparison is definitely required, as it helps you make a fair choice in line with your preferences. So, here’s an informative guide based on Southwest vs JetBlue Comparison, designed to examine the various factors associated with these carriers. 

Both of them are popular in the United States and are known for their unique offerings. You can explore a lot of aspects such as flights, seating, customer service, prices, legroom, baggage policies, inflight entertainment, and safety, and finally decide which airline suits your travel needs best.

Read on! 

Southwest vs JetBlue Flights

No doubt, a great frequency of flights is managed by both carriers within domestic networks, which connects major cities and famous tourist destinations all across the United States. In fact, their flights are also preferred for budget-friendly fares and convenient booking processes.

But it is to be noted that Southwest Airlines follows a point-to-point route structure approach wherein direct flights are usually operated with minimal layovers. So, this becomes a better choice due to short hops. But JetBlue has a combination of point-to-point and hub-and-spoke networks. They focus on both short and long-haul flights.

This means you can consider the one as per your requirements.

Southwest vs JetBlue Seating

Southwest used to have an open seating policy which means you could select your seat after you boarded the plane. So, no seating was assigned beforehand, which definitely meant if you were an early boarder, you got the best seat. But if you boarded late, the options got limited. 

And… the good news came – Southwest has now announced the ‘Assigned Seating’ option. As mentioned on its website, this is available for bookings made for 27^th January 2026 onwards.

Well, JetBlue has an assigned seating system, which lets you choose your seat at the time of flight booking or even check-in. It may also be highlighted that this airline is known for its spacious and comfortable seats.

JetBlue vs Southwest Customer Service

Southwest also has a good customer base and it’s known for its flexible policies. The staff on ground or crew onboard is hospitable and extends a friendly welcome to passengers. 

Likewise, JetBlue also enjoys a great reputation for its friendly, attentive crew and high customer satisfaction. The onboard experience is also smooth as expressed by customers online. 

No wonder, when it’s JetBlue vs Southwest Airlines in terms of customer satisfaction, JetBlue’s services are often considered as more premium.

Southwest vs JetBlue Prices

Pricing is certainly the most important factor for travelers flying on a tight budget. Of course, this point arises when the question is – Southwest or JetBlue, which is better?

Southwest is known for its low fares and there are usually no hidden charges. 

JetBlue’s fares are also found to be competitive, but it charges for checked bags and offers additional amenities that may increase the total cost. But yes, this airline also keeps announcing promotional schemes and discounts, which makes it a desired option for those who can pay slightly more for enhanced comfort and amenities.

Southwest vs JetBlue Legroom

Legroom is a key element to be considered when it comes to passenger comfort and convenience. You will generally find standard legroom in case of Standard Seats and Preferred Seats. But there are Extra Legroom Seats also which offer good legroom space so that you can stretch out well at the front of the cabin and near the exit rows. They have five extra inches of legroom compared to other category seats. Moreover, if you opt for these seats, you can enjoy earlier access to bin space, have more snacks, and also get premium beverages on a complimentary basis.

JetBlue features five types of seats – Core, Core (preferred), Extra Legroom, EvenMore®, and Mint, in which the first two have average fleet-wide seat pitch as found in most of the U.S. airlines. The Extra Legroom seats have up to 7″ inches more space to stretch out. EvenMore® seats also have extra legroom, and Mint type has lie-flat seats. 

JetBlue’s seats are often praised for their better overall comfort due to new and more ergonomic design. 

JetBlue vs Southwest Baggage Policy

Southwest used to allow two free checked bags per passenger, which was indeed a major advantage for travelers with multiple pieces of bags. However, this policy came to an end in May 2025, as now the airline made checked bags chargeable. It charges US$35 for the first checked bag, while it’s US$45 for the second one. Travelers with certain memberships may bring free checked bags. In case of carry-ons, one cabin bag and one personal item can be taken on the flight.

JetBlue also charges for checked bags. It’s generally US$45 for the first checked bag, and the charge for the second one is US$60. But yes, the airline also offers fare options that include baggage on a complimentary basis. The carry-on policy is the same as Southwest.

JetBlue vs Southwest Inflight Entertainment

JetBlue is popular for offering free high-speed Wi-Fi and a wide selection of free in-flight entertainment, including live TV, movies, and music through its Fly-Fi system. 

Southwest also offers free streaming movies and TV shows via Wi-Fi, but passengers need to connect their devices to access these services. You can get free Wi-fi as a Rapid Rewards member, otherwise the charge is US$8 per device.

But on an overall basis, JetBlue’s inflight entertainment options are considered vast and user-friendly.

JetBlue vs Southwest Safety

Safety is utmost important for all travelers. 

Both Southwest and JetBlue follow strict federal safety standards and also have the reputation of strong safety records. Southwest, being one of the largest domestic carriers, is known for its rigorous safety protocols, while JetBlue also has high safety standards, with modern aircraft and top-notch safety procedures. So, in this case, both airlines are almost similar and reliable.

Concluding Words – Southwest Vs JetBlue Comparison

All in all, choosing between Southwest and JetBlue ultimately depends on your travel requirements. Both airlines have their own strengths, so you can consider what aspects are most important for your travel experience. If budget is your main priority, Southwest’s lower fares make it an excellent choice. However, if you can pay more for additional comfort, modern inflight entertainment, and a more premium experience then no doubt, JetBlue becomes the first choice for you. The carrier’s amenities and service quality are indeed better. Happy travels!

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