To be honest, we didn't have JetBlue and United launching a partnership on our 2025 bingo card … bet here we are.
The two airlines just announced a (somewhat) surprising new partnership – and it could be a big win for travelers looking to earn and burn miles across more routes and airlines.
Dubbed “Blue Sky,” this new collaboration aims to make it easier for customers of both airlines to book flights, earn miles or points, and get elite benefits when flying on either carrier. Think of it like a lighter version of a full-blown airline alliance (for now) … but with some real upside for travelers.
Critically, this deal spells United's return to New York City (JFK). JetBlue is set to give up seven daily slots at Terminal 6, in exchange for a handful of better flight times at Newark (EWR). Regaining access to JFK is a huge win for United and no doubt the driving force behind this new partnership.
At this point, there are more questions than answers about how this new partnership will play out and expand, but it's no doubt a win for both travelers and the airlines. Here's what we know so far and what it means for you.
What's Changing?
Starting as early as this fall (pending regulatory approval), United’s MileagePlus members will be able to earn and redeem miles on most JetBlue flights, and JetBlue’s TrueBlue members will be able to do the same on United’s massive global network.
That’s a huge deal. JetBlue dominates East Coast leisure routes – especially to the Caribbean – while United is a powerhouse when it comes to long-haul international flying. The two networks don’t overlap much, making this a smart match-up.
Here’s a quick rundown of what Blue Sky will include:
- Reciprocal mileage-earning and redemption on both JetBlue and United flights
- Cross-booking: You’ll be able to book JetBlue flights on United’s website and app, and vice versa
- Elite benefits like priority check-in, boarding, preferred seats, and same-day changes when flying on either airline
- No codeshare flights (for now) – both airlines will maintain their own flight numbers and pricing
- United returns to JFK with access to JetBlue’s Terminal 6 and up to seven daily roundtrips by 2027
- United and JetBlue will trade eight flight times at Newark (EWR) – a win for JetBlue
This isn't quite a JetBlue-United merger (remember what happened with the JetBlue-Spirit deal?), but it's definitely a serious partnership that could shake up the travel landscape. JetBlue has been struggling mightily lately – failing to turn a profit since 2019 – and has been seeking a suitor to help it shore up its operations and give it more access to Americans' expanding appetite for international travel.
After a similar partnership with the American Airlines was struck down by the Department of Justice under the previous administration, JetBlue is ready to give it another go with United. This one is far more likely to succeed in the current regulatory environment.
What It Means for Your Miles & Points
For points and miles nerds like us, this is where things get interesting.
Let’s say you’re a United MileagePlus member sitting on a pile of miles. Soon, you’ll be able to redeem those for a JetBlue flight to Aruba, Jamaica, or Barbados – without needing to fly United or a partner airline. On the flip side, JetBlue TrueBlue points can soon be used for a flight to far-flung international destinations like Cape Town, Tahiti, or Tokyo on United metal.
Unsurprisingly, the two airlines also promise revenue-based earning, so the amount of miles or points you’ll earn should be based on the cost of your ticket – not the distance flown. Details on redemption rates and elite benefits haven’t dropped yet, but both airlines say more info is coming later this year.
Both JetBlue and United also offer points pooling and have no blackout dates when redeeming miles for available seats, so there's a lot to like here.
Booking & Benefits
Beyond miles, the day-to-day experience should get a boost, too. Travelers with elite status on either airline will get:
- Priority check-in, boarding, and baggage handling
- Access to extra legroom and preferred seating
- Free first checked bag
- Free same-day flight changes or standby access
Even better, you’ll soon be able to book either airline’s flights through each other’s websites and apps – no more bouncing back and forth to search for the right fare. That’s especially helpful if you're piecing together a complex itinerary or trying to compare prices on the fly.
Why This Matters
This is a smart, strategic move for both airlines. For JetBlue, it’s a way to offer more global reach without investing in a long-haul fleet. For United, it means solidifying its presence in key JetBlue markets like New York (JFK) and Boston, while also tapping into JetBlue’s loyal Northeast traveler base.
And for travelers? It’s all about more options and more flexibility with your miles and points.
Whether you’re planning a Caribbean getaway or a bucket-list trip to Asia, this partnership could give you new tools to make it happen, using the miles or points you already have.
Bottom Line
JetBlue and United are teaming up in a big way – and travelers should pay attention. With the ability to earn and redeem miles across both airlines, plus reciprocal perks and streamlined booking, this new Blue Sky partnership could unlock some serious value for points and miles enthusiasts.
Stay tuned for more details later this year. But for now, it’s safe to say that this is an airline partnership worth keeping an eye on.
