Rejected: US Supreme Court Won’t Review Decision To End American Airlines-JetBlue Alliance
By Aviation Nexus Staff Writer | July 1, 2025
In a significant setback for two of the United States’ largest carriers, the U.S. Supreme Court has declined to review a lower court ruling that ordered the dismantling of the Northeast Alliance (NEA) between American Airlines and JetBlue Airways. The high court’s decision effectively ends the controversial partnership that had aimed to enhance competition in the busy Northeast corridor.
The alliance, launched in 2021, allowed American and JetBlue to coordinate schedules, share revenue, and offer reciprocal benefits in key markets including New York and Boston. However, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) sued in 2021, arguing the agreement reduced competition and harmed consumers by blurring the lines between the two rivals.
In May 2023, a federal judge sided with the DOJ, stating the partnership violated antitrust laws. Both airlines appealed, asserting that the alliance allowed them to better compete against Delta and United. JetBlue subsequently withdrew from the agreement in 2023 to focus on its ill-fated merger attempt with Spirit Airlines, which was also blocked earlier this year.
American Airlines expressed disappointment with the Supreme Court’s refusal to hear the case. “We believe the NEA has delivered real benefits to customers,” the carrier said in a statement, adding that it remains committed to its presence in the Northeast.
Industry analysts say the decision marks a turning point in federal scrutiny of airline collaborations and could signal tougher regulatory stances ahead. With both the NEA and the JetBlue-Spirit merger now dead, carriers are expected to pivot toward organic growth and more cautious alliances.
The Supreme Court did not comment on its decision, as is customary when it declines to hear a case.
