Airline alliances still short of a first-class product

United Airlines and JetBlue have announced a partnership called Blue Sky, allowing them to sell each other’s flights online, expanding JetBlue’s network while United gains access to key flight slots at JFK. Unlike previous attempts at mergers, this alliance does not involve revenue sharing or coordinated schedules, aimed at navigating competition regulations. Despite a 1% drop in their combined market value post-announcement, the partnership may offer real benefits for customers as genuine mergers remain challenging in the airline industry.