JetBlue and Etihad Expand Codeshare Through Loyalty Partnership

The New York-based airline announced the new loyalty partnership with long-time codeshare partner Etihad Airways, effective on May 8, 2024.

Loyalty Partnership Opens Award Travel, But Doesn’t Specify Reciprocal Recognition

Under the new partnership, members of TrueBlue will be able to earn points when traveling aboard Etihad flights when using their member number at booking. In turn, Etihad Guest flyers can book JetBlue flights and earn points aboard those flights.

Executives at both airlines say this opportunity underscores Etihad’s commitment to flying to and from the United States. In addition to introducing their Airbus A380 on flights between Abu Dhabi and New York, the airline is also adding direct service to Boston Logan International Airport (BOS). JetBlue has a major presence at both airports.

“As a successful partner since 2014, we are excited to introduce loyalty benefits as part of our codeshare partnership with Etihad,” Christopher Buckner, vice president of loyalty and partnerships at JetBlue, said in a press release. “This partnership extension delivers both JetBlue TrueBlue and Etihad Guest members more ways to earn and redeem on travel, making exploring either airline’s network of top global destinations even more rewarding.”

Although the new loyalty partnership opens more award travel opportunities, it does not specify if the two airlines will offer reciprocal benefits for their elite members. TrueBlue currently has four levels of elite flyers, while Etihad Guest has three loyalty tiers.

The partnership marks JetBlue’s second loyalty agreement with the “Middle East Three” airlines. Qatar Airways is currently a loyalty partner, allowing flyers to also earn points when flying with the flag carrier.

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