United and JetBlue Partnership: New Benefits but Still Some Gaps

Update on the Blue Sky Partnership Benefits

United Airlines and JetBlue have officially rolled out the next phase of their Blue Sky partnership, offering members exclusive benefits when flying with both airlines. This is great news for frequent United flyers, but there's a major issue: JetBlue flights do not help United members extend their MileagePlus status.

This collaborative program allows eligible members of United MileagePlus and JetBlue TrueBlue to enjoy exclusive benefits when flying on each other's networks. Previously, members could earn and redeem points, as well as book tickets through both airlines' websites.

Benefits for United Members Flying JetBlue

For Premier members of United, flying JetBlue comes with several perks, including:

• Priority boarding
• Expedited check-in and security screening
• Free selection of preferred seating after booking
• Free access to EvenMore seating, subject to availability
• One free checked bag
• Priority baggage handling
• Boarding in priority groups corresponding to their membership tier

For instance, Premier Platinum and Premier 1K members will board in group 1, while Premier Gold members board in group 2. These benefits enhance the flying experience for United members when they choose JetBlue, particularly in major cities like Boston, New York, Florida, and the Caribbean.

Benefits for JetBlue Members Flying United

On the flip side, JetBlue's Mosaic members also enjoy advantages when flying with United. These benefits include:

• Priority boarding
• Expedited check-in and security screening
• Free selection of preferred seating
• Free access to Economy Plus, subject to availability
• One free checked bag
• Priority baggage handling

Mosaic members 2, 3, and 4 will board in group 1, while Mosaic 1 will board in group 2. This gives JetBlue members a compelling reason to choose United when JetBlue cannot take them to their desired destination.

A Major Issue: Lack of United Status Points on JetBlue

Despite the attractive benefits, the biggest problem remains: JetBlue flights do not allow United members to earn Premier Qualifying Points (PQP) or Premier Qualifying Flights (PQF) for their MileagePlus status. This makes the partnership less appealing for many United members.

While reward points can be earned from JetBlue flights, if they do not contribute to United status, they hold little practical value. This is particularly crucial in the latter months of the year when many members are trying to requalify, and every dollar spent counts.

In contrast, TrueBlue members of JetBlue can earn points and status when flying with United, making this partnership more beneficial from JetBlue's perspective. This creates a strong incentive for Mosaic members to fly with United.

Conclusion

The collaboration between United and JetBlue through Blue Sky has become more beneficial with the implementation of exclusive perks. United members enjoy various advantages when flying with JetBlue, while JetBlue elites receive similar treatment when flying United. However, the biggest drawback remains the inability to earn PQP and PQF on JetBlue flights, diminishing the appeal of Blue Sky for many loyal United customers. If United wants MileagePlus members to genuinely consider JetBlue as part of their travel plans, there needs to be a way for JetBlue flights to count towards United status.

Article referenced and edited from: Live and Let's Fly