Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut said he’s concerned that a proposed partnership between United and JetBlue could harm competition and eventually reduce choices for travelers in the New York City metro area.
According to Reuters, Blumenthal sent a letter to United CEO Scott Kirby and JetBlue CEO Joanna Geraghty in which he asked for more details about the “Blue Sky” alliance, company records pertaining to the agreement, and information about the carriers’ future plans. Reuters said it saw the letter on Friday.
The senator wrote that he is worried about any deal “that may harm full and fair airline competition and lead to fewer and more expensive options for travelers, particularly in the New York City area.”
The United-JetBlue partnership, announced in May, allows members of the airlines’ loyalty programs to earn and redeem points or miles across both networks. Each airline will offer flights on the other’s website and mobile app.
As part of the agreement, United would resume operations at New York-JFK, while JetBlue would expand its presence at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey.
Low-cost carrier Spirit came out against the Blue Sky alliance in June, arguing in a regulatory complaint that it will create “anti-competitive incentives” and turn JetBlue into “a de facto vassal of United.”
United and JetBlue rejected those claims and contend the link-up will actually increase JetBlue’s independence by making it more competitive.
JetBlue, which is based in New York City, has struggled to rebound following the COVID-19 pandemic.
The carrier attempted to expand its reach and revitalize its business with a partnership with American Airlines, billed as the “Northeast Alliance.” The arrangement would have allowed the two companies to share passengers and coordinate on routes, but a federal judge ruled against it, finding the partnership would harm competition in the industry.
JetBlue also attempted to buy Spirit, but that deal was also blocked by a federal court ruling after a trial last year.
