Looks like a trend … among the low-cost darlings. JetBlue’s TrueBlue will convert their earnings structure to that of basing the “point” accumulation based on fares being spent rather than the current length of flight, something that competitor Virgin America’s Elevate does. This change will happen this fall but leaves a few (OK, a lot …) of questions unanswered. For instance, the information we have says “If you have TrueBlue points left over when the program relaunches in the fall you will be able to use the points you earn in the redesigned program and convert them back into old TrueBlue points in order to get to an Award Flight.” Uh …. convert them back? Sounds a little confusing to me and Lord knows I’ve been through some of these “grandfathered” things with miles and points. But, we’ll have to wait and see just how easy this task and comprehension will be for members.
The new TrueBlue:
- Ability to use points for any seat on any JetBlue operated flight
- No blackout dates (except code share and other interline partners flights)
- Points that don’t expire (points don’t expire as long as you earn points through flying JetBlue or through the use of the JetBlue Card from American Express on eligible purchases at least once in a 12 month period. Shorter expiry period than any of the major airline programs, but hey, stay active and good with your points)
- Bonus points the more you travel
- Oneway Award Flights starting at just 5,000 points
- Six (6) points for every dollar spent when you purchase a flight at jetblue.com
- Up to eight (8) points for every eligible dollar spent when you purchase a flight at jetblue.com using your JetBlue Card from American Express
A quick comparison and it looks like you’ll get to a free flight faster with JetBlue vs. Virgin America and if you’re wanting to compare TrueBlue to the other major programs, a good place to start is here on FlyerTalk:
For the official notice of these upcoming changes, click here:
