Singapore Airlines and jetBlue launch reciprocal mileage earning

In great news for fliers, two highly lauded airlines known for their above-and-beyond in-flight service are beefing up the benefits. Singapore Airlines and jetBlue now offer reciprocal mileage earning, meaning that jetBlue fliers can choose to earn the airline's own True Blue miles (earned based upon how much they spend) or Singapore Airlines' miles (based upon the distance of flight and type of fare paid).

This is great news for regular jetBlue passengers who now gain access to the entire Star Alliance network of possibilities thanks to Singapore Airlines. Those regular work commutes between New York and L.A., whether in Mint class or a middle seat munching the famous jetBlue blue chips, can now get you to far-flung destinations like the Maldives or Australia.

It seems less likely that Singapore Airlines loyalty program members will ask to earn jetBlue points, unless they travel frequently in North America. So, the real joy will be felt in the U.S. where frequent fliers can now redeem for glamorous first class or business class seats.

Sek Eng Lee, Regional Vice President - Americas for Singapore Airlines told RWV:

"SIA is pleased to partner with jetBlue to provide passengers with a new set of options to earn miles, bringing them even closer to a broad range of travel rewards. We look forward to continuing to find new ways to bring value to customers within this growing partnership."

Even if you only fly jetBlue infrequently, Million Mile Secrets points out that you can transfer points from numerous credit card loyalty programs to Singapore Airlines and redeem them for awards like one-way in first class between the U.S. and Europe for 57,375 miles — or a roundtrip award between the U.S. mainland and Hawaii for only 30,000 miles in coach. Star Alliance member United charges more than Singapore for some of the same awards, so collecting Singapore miles could get you closer to your dream vacation faster than before.

RWV reached out to jetBlue for comments on the new partnership and will update the story when we hear back.