JetBlue Airways is nearing a significant new domestic partnership with another U.S. airline, with an announcement anticipated by the end of June. The potential collaboration is a key component of JetBlue’s strategic plan to expand its network and increase its competitive edge, particularly after the dissolution of its Northeast Alliance (NEA) with American Airlines last year.
JetBlue President Marty St. George remarked during the company’s first-quarter earnings call that progress had been made on discussions for the upcoming partnership. “I think we’re getting very close to making an announcement,” St. George stated. “We have made good progress on discussions.”
The partner airline will be a larger domestic U.S. carrier. Speculation suggests only a few airlines fall within the criteria: “Big Three” legacy carriers, as well as Southwest Airlines and Alaska Airlines. Notably, Alaska Airlines has confirmed it is not part of the discussions. Additionally, negotiations with American Airlines have ceased, with the latter reportedly suing JetBlue.
Recent reports from Reuters indicate that United Airlines might be involved in the discussions, though this has not been independently verified by The Points Guy (TPG), and neither airline has provided comments on the matter.
JetBlue aims for this partnership to increase available destinations for its customers, allowing them to earn and redeem JetBlue TrueBlue points more extensively. St. George explained, “Just a sort of better opportunity for our customers to fly more places with more frequency.”
The development forms part of JetBlue’s “JetForward” strategy introduced last year to restore profitability. The plan includes introducing airport lounges, new first-class seats, and expanding partnerships. However, St. George hinted that the deal being considered might surpass the expectations set by JetForward.
Currently, JetBlue maintains loyalty partnerships with international carriers such as Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, and Singapore Airlines. Recently, it entered a similar agreement with Japan Airlines.
