TBM Staff - Mumbai
JetBlue (B6), headquartered in New York City (NYC), and Etihad Airways (EY), based in Abu Dhabi (AUH), have jointly declared the integration of loyalty program benefits into their existing codeshare agreement.
This enhancement, marking another milestone in their enduring partnership, was unveiled at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai on May 7th. Effective from May 8, 2024, this arrangement allows members of JetBlue’s TrueBlue loyalty program and Etihad Guest, EY’s loyalty program, to accrue and utilise points across both airlines’ expansive networks.
Mark Potter, Managing Director, Etihad Guest, expressed enthusiasm, stating, “JetBlue has been a pivotal ally for Etihad for nearly a decade, and we’re delighted to extend this collaboration to our loyalty programs, offering mutual rewards to our esteemed members.”
Christopher Buckner, Vice President of Loyalty and Partnerships, JetBlue, echoed the sentiment, affirming, “Since 2014, our partnership with Etihad has flourished, and we’re thrilled to introduce loyalty benefits as a significant addition to our codeshare cooperation.”
This development builds upon their existing partnership, which grants access between New York, Boston (BOS), and over 70 global destinations served by Etihad, alongside 40 destinations across JetBlue’s network spanning North, Central, and South America.
Buckner further emphasised, “This expanded partnership empowers JetBlue TrueBlue and Etihad Guest members with enhanced opportunities for earning and redeeming rewards across our vast networks, enriching the travel experience for all.”
Etihad has recently deployed its Airbus A380 on routes to New York (JFK), enhancing connectivity between AUH and JFK, while also reintroducing scheduled services to BOS in the US. Additionally, EY has forged new interline agreements with five carriers across five countries.
Potter emphasised, “This underscores Etihad’s commitment to the U.S. market, evident in our direct service between Abu Dhabi and Boston, and the introduction of our flagship A380 on the New York route, thereby expanding our operational capacity.”
This partnership expansion augments the redemption options available to members, with Etihad Guest miles redeemable for various experiences, including flights, global hotel stays, and the conversion of miles into reward cards for shopping, enriching the loyalty program offerings for all participants.
