Spirit Airlines Fights JetBlue–United “Blue Sky” Deal
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Spirit Airlines has officially filed a complaint against the proposed “Blue Sky” alliance between JetBlue and United Airlines. The low-cost carrier argues that this partnership would give United too much power and turn JetBlue into a follower, reducing competition in key cities like New York and Boston. Spirit fears that travelers would face fewer choices and higher fares if the deal goes through.
One of Spirit’s biggest concerns is the shared loyalty programs. If JetBlue passengers can earn and use points on United flights, Spirit says JetBlue will have to pay United, and those added costs could be passed on to customers. Spirit also says this setup looks too similar to JetBlue’s failed partnership with American Airlines, which was shut down for breaking antitrust laws.
While JetBlue and United claim the Blue Sky deal is smaller and more flexible than past alliances, Spirit wants the Department of Transportation to review it carefully. They argue it could make it even harder for budget airlines to compete, which means fewer affordable flights for everyone.
