DOT Approves JetBlue-United Blue Sky Partnership

The U.S. Department of Transportation has approved the Blue Sky partnership between JetBlue Airways and United Airlines, allowing the carriers to collaborate on loyalty programs, reciprocal elite perks, and flight bookings across both networks. United will resume operations at New York-JFK using slots provided by JetBlue, while JetBlue will expand its presence at Newark Liberty International Airport. The phased rollout of customer benefits is set to begin in fall 2025. Some competitors and lawmakers have expressed concerns about potential anti-competitive effects of the alliance. JetBlue's second quarter 2025 financial results showed a modest operating profit despite lower passenger numbers and revenue, attributed to cost controls and the anticipated benefits of the United partnership. Both airlines plan to announce more implementation details as the alliance takes effect.