United Airlines and JetBlue Airways have recently announced a new agreement called “Blue Sky,” which will allow their frequent flier members to earn and redeem miles on each other’s flights. This partnership will also offer additional benefits such as priority boarding, free baggage, and preferred seating for passengers traveling on the other airline’s aircraft. The agreement is subject to regulatory approval and more details will be revealed later this year.

Under this partnership, United and JetBlue will also display each other’s itineraries and fares on their respective websites and apps, providing more options for customers when searching for flights. This comes after JetBlue’s previous alliance with American Airlines ended in 2023 following a Justice Department lawsuit during the Biden administration.

As part of the agreement, JetBlue will also provide United with space for seven round trips a day at John F. Kennedy Airport starting in 2027. This will allow United to resume operations at JFK after shutting down all operations there in 2022 and focusing on Newark Liberty International Airport. Currently, JetBlue operates about 180 round trips a day at JFK.

Joanna Geraghty, CEO of JetBlue, believes that this partnership with United will greatly benefit their customers by expanding their options and benefits, regardless of their travel destination. United CEO Scott Kirby also expressed excitement over the collaboration, stating that it will provide their MileagePlus members with more value and benefits.

It is important to note that both airlines will remain separate companies and will independently manage and price their flights. The Biden administration has taken a strong stance against business combinations, as seen in their opposition to the JetBlue and American alliance and their successful antitrust suit blocking JetBlue’s purchase of Spirit Airlines. On the other hand, the Trump administration has shown a more open approach to mergers, with the recent announcement of rules that facilitate banking mergers.

In conclusion, the partnership between United and JetBlue will offer numerous benefits to their frequent fliers and expand their reach and options for customers. With the potential for more collaborations between airlines in the future, this could lead to a more seamless and convenient travel experience for passengers.