When it comes to choosing an airline for your travels, the options can be overwhelming. United Airlines and JetBlue are two prominent names in the aviation industry, each with its unique offerings and advantages. In this comprehensive comparison, I’m diving into various aspects of United Airlines vs JetBlue to help you make an informed decision for your next journey.
United Airlines vs JetBlue: Classes
United Airlines and JetBlue both offer multiple classes to cater to diverse traveller preferences.
If you’re looking for options, United has many ranging from Economy Class to Domestic First Class. This provides passengers with a spectrum of choices for a comfortable journey. On the other hand, JetBlue is renowned for its innovative Mint Class, featuring lie-flat seats and a host of premium amenities. Whether you prioritize the traditional luxury of United Airlines or the modern sophistication of JetBlue is a matter of personal preference.
When considering budget travel, JetBlue will certainly be the better option. After looking at different domestic and international flight paths, United Airlines will typically cost you a few hundred dollars more for a roundtrip economy journey than JetBlue. With this in mind, JetBlue doesn’t have the best reviews, flights are often delayed, they don’t fly globally and service has been said to be unfriendly.
United Airlines vs JetBlue: Destinations
If you’re planning a domestic trip in the United States, both airlines will have many options to choose from! On the flip side, if you’re after an international destination, United Airlines might be your best bet, as JetBlue doesn’t fly to many overseas locations. JetBlue mostly sticks to the US and London flights so you won’t necessarily fly much with them internationally. United flies to over 135 international destinations so it’s a great option if you’re booking a vacation in a different country!
United Airlines vs JetBlue: Changes & Cancellation PoliciesÂ
Understanding the changes and cancellation policies of airlines is crucial for any traveller. United Airlines and JetBlue have distinct policies in this regard.
United Airlines often offers flexibility with its policies, allowing changes with certain conditions. If you’re flying domestically, to the Caribbean or Mexico, you don’t need to worry about fees for changes to your flight, even if you’ve only paid for Economy. However, this differs for international flights.
Basic Economy tickets can be cancelled and are fully refunded within 24 hours of booking but outside this time frame, you’ll incur a fee between $50-200.
JetBlue, known for its customer-friendly approach, provides features like Same-Day Switches, easing the hassle for passengers. With that being said, if you’re on a Basic fare, changes and cancellations cost between $100-$200 depending on the destination and flight route. Not all flights with JetBlue have refundable fares so ensure you’re aware of the type of fare you’re purchasing ahead of time.
Depending on your travel plans, one of these policies may align better with your needs.
United Airlines vs JetBlue: Baggage PoliciesÂ
Baggage policies can significantly impact your travel experience. Depending on how you travel and whether or not you’re bringing sports equipment or multiple bags, for example, you might be interested to know what each airline allows. Both United Airlines and JetBlue have their unique baggage regulations:
United Airlines, as one of the major airlines, offers various fare options, including Basic Economy and Economy, each with different baggage allowances. Basic Economy always includes a personal item and a free carry-on bag for South American, Central American, Trans-Atlantic or Trans-Pacific journeys.
In contrast, JetBlue provides a complimentary checked bag with most fares, adding value for budget-conscious travellers. BUT if you’re going with the Blue Basic option, you can only bring a small personal item with you.
United Airlines vs JetBlue: BoardingÂ
The boarding process sets the tone for your journey, and both United Airlines and JetBlue have their distinctive approaches.
United Airlines follows a group boarding system, prioritizing certain passengers based on their status and class. This is pretty standard for major airlines.
JetBlue, with its emphasis on customer satisfaction, aims for easier access with its streamlined boarding process. They put customers with the same reservation into the same boarding group and offer priority boarding for specific classes.
Boarding options between both airlines are fairly similar and not something I’d really pay much attention to when deciding between which airline to choose. I’d always recommend getting on the plane last instead of standing in a long line to board. Of course, if you have lots of baggage to bring on board, waiting in line would be a better idea but if you’re travelling light, you might as well board last.
United Airlines vs JetBlue: Legroom & ComfortÂ
For many travellers, comfort is a top priority. United Airlines and JetBlue cater to this need differently.
United Airlines offers Economy Plus with extra legroom for a fee, enhancing the comfort for passengers.
Strangely enough, JetBlue is known for having some of the most legroom in the industry. They prioritizes passenger comfort across their fleet. If ample legroom is a priority, JetBlue might have the edge.
United Airlines vs JetBlue: Food & DrinksÂ
The culinary experience at 35,000 feet has evolved beyond basic sustenance, becoming an integral part of the journey.
United Airlines offers complimentary snacks and meals in premium cabins, catering to a range of palates.
JetBlue, on the other hand, is celebrated for its complimentary snacks and artisanal options, elevating the in-flight dining experience.
Your taste preferences and priorities in onboard dining can play a significant role in determining which airline aligns better with your expectations.
United Airlines vs JetBlue: Loyalty program
For frequent flyers, a robust loyalty program can be a deciding factor. United Airlines and JetBlue have their respective programs – MileagePlus and TrueBlue. Both programs offer bonus points, priority check-in, and other perks. Assessing your travel patterns and preferences will help determine which loyalty program aligns better with your needs.
United Airlines vs JetBlue: In-Flight EntertainmentÂ
Entertainment options can make a significant difference during a flight. United Airlines and JetBlue both offer in-flight entertainment but with different approaches.
United Airlines provides a range of movies, TV shows, and music across its fleet, while JetBlue is renowned for its live TV and complimentary Wi-Fi. Depending on your entertainment priorities, one airline may better suit your preferences.
United Airlines vs JetBlue: Safety RatingÂ
Safety is paramount when choosing an airline. Both United Airlines and JetBlue adhere to strict safety standards. However, individual safety ratings can vary based on factors such as fleet age and incident history. Consulting reputable sources and checking safety ratings can provide valuable insights to inform your decision.
United Airlines vs JetBlue: Credit CardsÂ
Credit cards associated with airlines can offer additional benefits for travellers. United Airlines and JetBlue have their respective credit cards – United Explorer Card and JetBlue Plus Card. These cards provide perks such as bonus points, advanced seat selection, and complimentary snacks. Assessing the specific advantages of each card will help you determine which aligns best with your travel preferences.
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The Bottom Line: Who Should You Fly With?
When it comes down to choosing between these two airlines, I suggest going with United if you have the budget. You get what you pay for and you’re bound to have a much nicer experience with United over JetBlue. However, if you’re on a tight budget and simply looking for the best bang for your buck, JetBlue will be the better option for you. It really does depend on many different factors but I’d personally choose United over JetBlue.
Do you agree? I’d love to know what your experience with both airlines has been!
I’ll be back shortly with a new blog but in the meantime, you can follow my adventures as a full-time traveller and digital nomad on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube!
Cheers,
Amy xx
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