A key US domestic airline with plans to launch UK services in 2021, JetBlue is taking a different route than most with its cabin layout.

JetBlue has announced it will extend until 4 July holiday its commitment to seat distancing by blocking middle seats in rows where parties are not travelling together.

As part of its “more space, fewer touchpoints” focus, JetBlue’s seat distancing policy is designed to give customers peace of mind that they will not be seated directly next to someone they don’t know. Middle seats will be blocked on its Airbus aircraft, and on its smaller Embraer 190 aircraft, JetBlue will block aisle seats. The airline does allow customers travelling together to sit in middle and aisle seats.

“We’re known for generous legroom and space, and now more than ever, those choosing to travel want as much space as possible,” Joanna Geraghty, President and Chief Operating Officer said. “We are pleased to extend our efforts to keep seats free and help everyone onboard spread out.”

“Even with blocked seats, it’s challenging to maintain six feet of distance between everyone onboard and that’s why JetBlue was the first US airline to require face coverings for customers,” she said.