JetBlue and United Launch Blue Sky Alliance After DOT Approval
New partnership expands flight options, loyalty rewards, and seamless travel for customers across both airline networks.
DOT Approval Clears the Runway for Blue Sky
JetBlue and United have received full approval from the U.S. Department of Transportation to proceed with their Blue Sky partnership. The collaboration marks a strategic move to expand each airline’s network and improve customer experiences through shared benefits and operations.
Leadership from both airlines thanked DOT officials for their thorough review and support during the evaluation of the partnership. With regulatory clearance complete, the airlines now prepare to roll out new benefits beginning in fall 2025.
Customers can expect regular updates as both carriers implement the partnership in phases to maximise value and accessibility.
Shared Loyalty Perks Across Both Networks
Frequent flyers will benefit from expanded earning and redemption opportunities across JetBlue’s TrueBlue and United’s MileagePlus programs. JetBlue customers will access United’s extensive domestic and global routes while enjoying familiar loyalty perks and travel experiences.
United flyers will now earn and use MileagePlus miles on most JetBlue-operated flights, increasing flexibility across more destinations. Passengers will also gain access to extra legroom seats, priority boarding, and same-day flight changes on either airline.
The phased launch will ensure customers transition smoothly into a more connected and convenient loyalty ecosystem.
Interline Booking and JFK Slot Access
Travellers will book flights from both airlines through either carrier’s app or website, thanks to a new interline agreement. This unified booking approach helps streamline travel plans and eliminate the hassle of switching platforms to complete reservations.
JetBlue will grant United access to JFK slots, allowing seven daily roundtrips from Terminal 6 beginning as early as 2027. Additionally, both airlines will exchange eight flight timings at Newark to better align schedules and meet growing travel demand.
The move strengthens JetBlue’s growth strategy and expands United’s footprint in a highly competitive air travel market.