JetBlue Ends Japan Airlines Partnership, Reshaping TrueBlue Points Redemption

December 26, 2025 at 06:36 PM•3 min read

JetBlue is ending its TrueBlue points redemption partnership with Japan Airlines on March 31, 2026, less than a year after launch, as part of a major network strategy shift toward the

Key Points

1JetBlue's TrueBlue points redemption partnership with Japan Airlines (JAL) will end on March 31, 2026, after launching in April 2025.
2TrueBlue members must book JAL award flights by the deadline; all existing bookings, even for travel after April 1, 2026, will be honored.
3The airline is shifting capacity, launching five new nonstop routes to San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU), from five U.S. cities starting in March 2026.
4This network optimization also included terminating the final Boston-Miami route in 2025 to free up aircraft for more profitable services.

JetBlue has announced the termination of its points redemption partnership with Japan Airlines (JAL). The program will officially cease on March 31, 2026.

This decision comes less than a year after the partnership began in April 2025. The collaboration allowed members of JetBlue’s loyalty program, TrueBlue, to redeem points for seats on certain JAL flights. This included economy, business, and first-class cabins.

Impact on TrueBlue Members

TrueBlue members can still book JAL flights using points until the March 31, 2026, deadline. All existing award bookings will be honored by JetBlue. This includes flights scheduled to depart on or after April 1, 2026.

The end of this TrueBlue redemption option removes a valuable pathway for members. It limits easy access to JAL’s extensive international network, including routes to Tokyo and other Asian markets. Industry analysts note the speed of the termination is surprising. The short-lived nature of the agreement raises questions about its performance.

JetBlue's Network Strategy Shift

The termination of the JAL partnership is part of JetBlue’s broader network strategy changes in 2025 and 2026. The carrier is focusing on strengthening its presence in the Caribbean.

New Routes to Puerto Rico

JetBlue, already the largest airline in Puerto Rico, is expanding its San Juan routes. Starting in March 2026, the airline will launch five brand-new nonstop services to Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU).

These new routes will connect San Juan with five U.S. cities:

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (PHL) – Daily service starting March 26.
Jacksonville, Florida (JAX) – Four times weekly starting March 13.
Norfolk, Virginia (ORF) – Four times weekly starting March 27.
Richmond, Virginia (RIC) – Three times weekly starting March 26.
Buffalo, New York (BUF) – Four times weekly starting March 27.

These new year-round services will increase JetBlue’s total nonstop destinations from San Juan to 22. Introductory one-way fares were offered starting from $99. This move deepens the airline's commitment to the island.

Miami Route Termination

Earlier in 2025, JetBlue ceased its final route between Boston and Miami International Airport (MIA). This was a move to free aircraft for new routes, according to a company statement. The airline noted it continually evaluates its network performance. JetBlue continues to serve Florida through its focus cities. These include Fort Lauderdale (FLL) and West Palm Beach (PBI).

JetBlue's strategy appears to be shifting capacity. It is moving away from certain long-haul partnerships and unprofitable routes. This capacity is being redeployed to strengthen its core domestic and Caribbean network. For the latest commercial aviation news and analysis on airline strategies, visit flying.flights.

JetBlue maintains other loyalty collaborations. These include partnerships with United Airlines, Icelandair, and Etihad Airways.