NEW YORK- JetBlue Airways (B6) and United Airlines (UA) have completed the US Department of Transportation (DOT) review of their joint “Blue Sky” collaboration.
This approval clears the way for both carriers to begin implementing the partnership, which aims to expand customer benefits and network access.
The collaboration focuses on enhancing flight options, reciprocal frequent flyer benefits, and streamlining travel services.
Passengers flying through key hubs like New York (JFK) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) will see the first changes starting in fall 2025.
Photo: UnitedJetBlue and United Blue Sky Alliance
Blue Sky is a strategic alliance between JetBlue and United that allows both airlines to provide passengers with greater flexibility and a wider network reach.
The DOT’s approval enables both carriers to integrate their loyalty programs, booking systems, and select operations. The initiative does not involve a merger or codeshare agreement but focuses on cooperative enhancements.
Under Blue Sky, members of United’s MileagePlus and JetBlue’s TrueBlue programs will be able to earn and redeem miles or points on most flights operated by either airline.
Customers with elite status will receive reciprocal benefits, including priority boarding, access to preferred and extra legroom seating, and same-day flight changes when flying with the partner airline.
In a major infrastructure move, JetBlue will grant United access to up to seven daily round-trip flight slots at JFK Terminal 6 starting as early as 2027.
In return, the carriers have agreed to a net-neutral swap of eight flight timings at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), enhancing scheduling efficiency for both airlines.
Photo: Clément AlloingExpanded Digital Integration
As part of the collaboration, each airline will feature the other’s flights on its respective websites and mobile apps, simplifying multi-carrier itinerary planning.
Travelers will also benefit from integrated loyalty redemptions and seamless booking experiences.
United plans to adopt JetBlue’s Paisly platform, which offers customers enhanced tools to book hotels, rental cars, cruises, and travel insurance.
This transition aims to streamline United’s non-air product offerings by using JetBlue’s customer-centric digital infrastructure.
Photo: Clément AlloingImplementation Phases
The Blue Sky initiative will begin rolling out in phases starting in fall 2025, with full customer-facing integration expected over the following months.
While some benefits, like flight bookings across both platforms, will arrive early, full loyalty and elite perks will be introduced progressively.
The partnership has been publicly positioned as a move to offer more consumer choice and value without compromising competition.
No antitrust concerns were cited in the DOT’s review, and the partnership will remain under standard compliance oversight.
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