JetBlue and United Launch ‘Blue Sky’

JetBlue and United Airlines have announced Blue Sky, a unique partnership that links their loyalty programs and expands travel options for customers of both airlines.

Through this collaboration, United MileagePlus® members will be able to earn and redeem miles on JetBlue flights, while JetBlue TrueBlue® members will enjoy the same benefits on United flights — including long-haul routes to destinations like Cape Town and Tahiti.

Key Features of Blue Sky

• Mutual Loyalty Rewards: MileagePlus members can earn and use miles on JetBlue’s network, including over 90 daily flights from the Northeast to the Caribbean. TrueBlue members will have access to United’s global network across the U.S., Latin America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Pacific.

• Reciprocal Loyalty Perks: Customers flying either airline will benefit from:

  • Priority check-in, boarding, security, and baggage handling

  • Free first checked bag

  • Access to preferred and extra legroom seats

  • Same-day flight changes and standby options

• Cross-Booking Functionality: Flights from both airlines will be available on each other’s websites and apps for easier planning and booking.
  (Note: This is based on an interline agreement — not a codeshare — meaning both airlines retain independent flight numbers and branding.)

• Expanded Airport Access:

  • Beginning in 2027, JetBlue will grant United access to slots at JFK Terminal 6 for up to seven daily roundtrips.

  • At Newark, the airlines will exchange eight flight slots for better scheduling efficiency.

• New Tech Integration: United will migrate its hotel, car rental, cruise, and insurance booking platforms to JetBlue’s Paisly technology — a white-glove service offering human-first support and integrated leisure travel solutions.

Statements from Leadership

“This bold collaboration brings together two customer-focused airlines and expands travel options and benefits across our networks,” said Joanna Geraghty, CEO of JetBlue. “It’s a win for both travelers and crew members and aligns with our JetForward strategy.”

“Blue Sky reflects our commitment to innovation and customer experience,” added Scott Kirby, CEO of United. “It gives our MileagePlus members exciting new ways to use their miles, while also marking our long-term return to JFK.”

Loyalty Programs at a Glance

JetBlue TrueBlue

• Free to join, with points that never expire

• No blackout dates, even in premium Mint cabin

• Points pooling with family and friends

• Perks You Pick® rewards available after just a few flights

United MileagePlus

• Free to join, miles never expire

• No blackout dates on award seats

• Miles can be used for nearly any onboard purchase

• Members can pool miles with others

• Includes free access to Starlink high-speed Wi-Fi

Between 2020 and 2024, MileagePlus members took over 42 million reward flights, and in the last year alone filled around 128 daily Boeing 777s using miles. During the 2024 holiday season, nearly 2 million customers flew on award tickets.

Enhanced Market Access

JetBlue operates:

• 90 daily flights from the Northeast to the Caribbean

• 180 daily flights from JFK

• 130 daily flights from Boston Logan

• Focus city operations in Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, San Juan, and Los Angeles

JetBlue also serves 15 destinations not available through United, including Cartagena (Colombia), Kingston (Jamaica), Ponce (Puerto Rico), and Martha’s Vineyard (Mass.).

Through United, TrueBlue members gain access to over 165 domestic and 104 international destinations, including:

• 27 cities in Europe

• 31 in Latin America

• 15 in Asia

• 14 in the South Pacific

• Plus destinations in Canada, Africa, and the Middle East

Corporate and Tech Synergies

• United and JetBlue may extend elements of their corporate programs to cover each other's flights, including pre-negotiated discounts.

• JetBlue will be the first airline partner to implement United’s Kinective Media℠, a targeted traveler media platform delivering personalized advertising and content.