JetBlue nears domestic alliance with another major U.S. airline

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.