Why Is JetBlue Ending Its Loyalty Partnership With Japan Airlines in March 2026?

December 30, 2025 at 05:00 PM•2 min read

JetBlue is ending its TrueBlue loyalty partnership with Japan Airlines (JAL), giving travelers until March 31, 2026, to book award redemptions on JAL flights.

Key Points

1The JetBlue-Japan Airlines loyalty partnership will officially terminate on March 31, 2026, ending TrueBlue award redemptions on JAL flights.
2The redemption program was short-lived, launching in April 2025 and concluding in less than a year.
3Existing award reservations will be honored, and changes/cancellations are still permitted after the cutoff date.
4Travelers must use their TrueBlue points for JAL flights before the deadline or seek JAL awards via Oneworld partners.

JetBlue is terminating its loyalty agreement with Japan Airlines (JAL). This decision ends the ability to redeem TrueBlue points for JAL flights. The partnership will conclude less than a year after its launch. This change significantly impacts TrueBlue members seeking international award travel.

Key Details and Deadlines

The final date to book JAL flights using TrueBlue award redemptions is March 31, 2026. After this date, the redemption option will no longer be available. This applies to new bookings only.

Impact on Existing Bookings

All existing award reservations will be honored by both airlines. Travelers do not need to take action on confirmed flights. Furthermore, changes or cancellations to tickets are still possible after the April 1, 2026, cutoff date.

Short-Lived International Travel Partners

The redemption phase of the JetBlue Japan Airlines partnership began in April 2025. Its quick termination is notable in the commercial aviation news sector. Neither airline has provided a specific reason for the breakup. However, the program offered very attractive rates for travel to Asia. The loss of this option removes a valuable route for JetBlue JAL frequent flyer members.

Passenger and Industry Outlook

This change forces TrueBlue members to seek alternative ways to book award flights to Japan. JAL remains a member of the Oneworld alliance. This means other Oneworld partners still offer JAL award bookings. These alternatives include American Airlines and Alaska Airlines.

JetBlue's Loyalty Strategy

The end of this loyalty program ends a key international option for JetBlue. The airline is simultaneously making other changes to its loyalty program. For 2026, JetBlue is enhancing benefits for its top-tier TrueBlue Mosaic members. These updates include a new 'Family Tiles' feature and increased point earning rates.

For more updates on airline partnerships and loyalty programs, visit our dedicated section on commercial aviation news.

Traveler Action Items

Book JAL Award Flights: TrueBlue members should book JAL flights before March 31, 2026.
Check Point Value: Evaluate the value of TrueBlue points for other partners.
Monitor for New Partners: JetBlue may seek new international travel partners to fill this gap.