JetBlue is set to terminate its loyalty alliance with Japan Airlines, marking the conclusion of TrueBlue award redemptions for flights operated by JAL.
On December 30, 2025, it was announced that March 31, 2026, will be the last opportunity for travelers to use their JetBlue TrueBlue points for booking Japan Airlines flights. Beyond this date, travelers won’t be able to redeem their points for JAL flights; however, cash bookings will remain unaffected, and any existing award reservations made prior to the cut-off will be honored.
Keep reading to discover more about this significant shift in the loyalty program landscape and learn how you can still enjoy flights on JAL using transferable rewards programs.
Implications for JetBlue TrueBlue Members
For members of the TrueBlue loyalty program, the most critical change is the cessation of award redemptions for Japan Airlines flights. Starting April 1, 2026, JetBlue points will no longer be valid for booking flights operated by JAL. Thankfully, JetBlue has assured customers that all current award bookings will be maintained, meaning those who have already redeemed their TrueBlue points for JAL flights will not need to alter their plans.
This update pertains strictly to future award redemptions. Travelers will still have the option to purchase flights on Japan Airlines using cash, either directly through JAL’s website or via JetBlue’s platforms where applicable.
This announcement may come as a disappointment to many JetBlue TrueBlue members, especially since JetBlue is a transfer partner with a range of leading flexible rewards programs, including American Express Membership Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, Citi ThankYou Rewards, Wells Fargo Rewards, and Capital One Miles.
Background on JetBlue and Japan Airlines' Partnership
JetBlue and Japan Airlines have had a collaborative relationship for several years, enabling passengers to book itineraries that feature both airlines. In April 2025, JetBlue significantly enhanced this partnership by allowing TrueBlue members to redeem points for flights operated by Japan Airlines. This development provided members with a valuable opportunity to use their points for long-haul international travel, particularly between the United States and Japan.
Although this redemption option was relatively short-lived, it allowed for some attractive high-value redemptions on international tickets. For instance, savvy travelers could secure one-way economy flights from the U.S. to Japan for as few as 29,000 TrueBlue points (excluding taxes and fees), contingent on availability.
Alternative Ways to Book Japan Airlines Flights with Points
Even though JetBlue's collaboration with Japan Airlines is concluding, there remain various avenues for travelers to book JAL flights using their rewards. Japan Airlines is currently a direct transfer partner with Capital One and Bilt Rewards, which means members of these programs can convert their points into JAL Mileage Bank miles and use them for award flights.
Moreover, travelers can also access Japan Airlines flights through Oneworld alliance partners such as American Airlines AAdvantage and Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan.
While the news regarding the end of JetBlue's partnership with JAL might be disheartening, these alternative redemption options ensure that travelers can continue to book flights on Japan Airlines using their points or miles even after the TrueBlue collaboration comes to a close.
Related Reading:
* How to earn and redeem miles with Japan Airlines Mileage Bank
* What it was like flying Japan Airlines first class — booked for just 80K American Airlines AAdvantage miles
* Huge suites and phenomenal amenities: A review of Japan Airlines' new A350 first class
* How to transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points to JetBlue TrueBlue
Featured Image by SEAN CUDAHY/THE POINTS GUY
Editorial Disclaimer: The views presented in this article are solely those of the author and do not reflect the opinions of any financial institution, credit card company, airline, or hotel chain. These opinions have not been reviewed, approved, or endorsed by any of the aforementioned entities.
