United and JetBlue Win DOT Approval for Blue Sky Deal
United Airlines and JetBlue have received official clearance from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to move forward with their Blue Sky partnership. The approval was announced on July 29, 2025, following a thorough review by the Trump administration. The airlines issued a joint statement thanking Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and Assistant Secretary Daniel Edwards for completing the evaluation and supporting the collaboration.
The Blue Sky partnership will create deeper integration between the two carriers through a range of strategic initiatives. Among the key features is a reciprocal loyalty program agreement that allows United MileagePlus members to earn and redeem miles on most JetBlue-operated flights, while JetBlue TrueBlue customers will be able to do the same on United’s domestic and global routes. The move expands rewards flexibility and enhances travel options for loyal passengers of both airlines.
Additionally, both carriers will introduce interline agreements that allow travelers to book flights on each other’s websites and apps. Customers will benefit from streamlined ticketing, combined itineraries, and shared perks such as priority boarding. These efforts are designed to improve the overall passenger experience while broadening route access across North America and international destinations.
Operationally, the deal includes a strategic slot exchange between the two carriers. JetBlue will transfer up to seven round-trip slots at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to United Airlines. In return, United will grant JetBlue access to eight round-trip slots at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), allowing both airlines to optimize their network presence in the competitive New York metropolitan area.
The Blue Sky alliance had initially raised concerns from Spirit Airlines, which argued that such consolidation could reduce competition and impact consumer choice. Despite the objections, DOT officials concluded that the partnership does not pose a threat to market fairness and instead offers enhanced service options for travelers.
As implementation begins, United and JetBlue say they will provide further updates in the coming weeks, outlining the rollout of new benefits and expanded services under the Blue Sky banner. The collaboration marks a significant shift in the competitive landscape of U.S. aviation, uniting two of the nation’s most recognizable carriers in a bid to improve operational efficiency and loyalty engagement.
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