United Airlines is preparing for a return to New York’s JFK International Airport for the first time since 2022, thanks to a new partnership with JetBlue.
The deal allows United to operate up to seven daily round-trip flights out of JFK starting in 2027 by utilizing takeoff and landing slots provided by JetBlue, which currently handles about 180 departures each day from the airport.
This move comes after a lengthy absence from JFK by United, which had previously pulled out of the airport three years ago.
The timing of the announcement coincides with the FAA’s decision to extend flight reductions at Newark Liberty International Airport through June. The decision was prompted by a continued shortage of air traffic controllers and persistent technical setbacks.
United, which considers Newark one of its major hubs, scaled back some of its scheduled operations from the airport earlier this month. The airline’s CEO, Scott Kirby, also addressed the ongoing challenges in a message sent to customers.
JetBlue, which once operated under a regional alliance with American Airlines in the Northeast, ended that arrangement in 2023 following an unfavorable court ruling.
The new pact between United and JetBlue, dubbed “Blue Sky,” includes an exchange of eight slot timings at Newark Airport. Some elements of the alliance will take effect later in 2025.
“United’s global reach perfectly complements JetBlue’s East Coast leisure network, and significantly expands the options and benefits for TrueBlue members, no matter where in the world they are traveling,” JetBlue CEO Joanna Geraghty said in a statement Thursday.
As part of the agreement, passengers will be able to enjoy perks across both airlines’ frequent flyer programs when flying either carrier. JetBlue flights will be bookable through United’s app and website, and vice versa. United’s MileagePlus members will be eligible to accrue and redeem miles on most JetBlue routes.
“We’re always looking for ways to give our MileagePlus members even more value and benefits and this collaboration gives them new, unique ways to use their hard-earned miles and find options that fit their schedule,” Kirby said.
While cooperating on loyalty benefits and some scheduling, both airlines confirmed they will retain full control over their individual route planning, pricing strategies, and marketing campaigns.
{Matzav.com}