"We are concerned": JetBlue pilots' union questions possible alliance with United
JetBlue Airways' plans to form a new commercial partnership with another U.S. airline are facing pushback from its pilots' union, the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), which warns of potential contract violations and negative impacts on pilots' job security.
The controversy follows reports of advanced negotiations between JetBlue and United Airlines for an agreement focused on improving connectivity and frequent flyer mile sharing and redemption. While neither airline has confirmed this specific pairing, JetBlue informed investors last week that it was in talks with a larger domestic carrier and expected to make an announcement this quarter.
In an internal message obtained by Reuters, Wayne Scales, chairman of ALPA’s Master Executive Council at JetBlue, warned pilots that a job protection clause in their current contract restricts the airline’s ability to enter such commercial agreements. According to the union, the contract only allows codeshare or joint venture deals if they lead to increased aircraft utilization and a higher number of active pilots on JetBlue’s payroll.
Recent data suggests the opposite trend: JetBlue’s average daily aircraft utilization fell to 9.7 hours in the first quarter of 2025, down from 10.2 hours during the same period last year. Meanwhile, the number of active pilots dropped slightly to around 4,800 in April, compared to approximately 4,950 a year ago.
Scales criticized JetBlue management for not consulting the union and said ALPA is working with legal advisors to counter the risks posed by the proposed partnership. "This is not a company that operates with its pilots’ best interests in mind, at all," Scales said. "Until we get answers, every JetBlue pilot has reason to be concerned about what's being negotiated behind closed doors."
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JetBlue responded via email, stating it is "fully aware of its contractual obligations" and will comply with all applicable provisions. The airline said it has informed the union that it will update them and the crew if a deal is finalized. United Airlines declined to comment on the matter.
This situation unfolds as JetBlue works to return to sustained profitability following the pandemic. The airline is grappling with weakened demand in some key markets and is implementing cost-cutting measures, including capacity reductions and early retirement offers for pilots.
Revenue from loyalty programs and partnerships with other airlines has become strategically important to strengthening its network and income stream. Negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement between JetBlue and ALPA are ongoing, running parallel to talks over the potential alliance.
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