From biometric advancements to sweeping fare changes and a major new partnership, U.S. airlines are making bold moves to reshape the traveler experience.
These changes reflect how carriers are evolving to meet modern travel expectations — combining convenience, customization and collaboration to deliver greater value and a more seamless journey. Here’s a look at the latest developments from American Airlines, Southwest Airlines and the newly announced alliance between United and JetBlue.
American Airlines
As of May 29, American Airlines is enhancing the security process with the rollout of TSA PreCheck Touchless ID for AAdvantage members traveling through the select airports below:
This new biometric program allows eligible AAdvantage members to pass through security more efficiently by verifying their identity using facial recognition technology. The system compares the traveler’s live image with their passport, Global Entry or visa card previously submitted to the government — eliminating the need to present a physical ID and helping reduce wait times.
Though participation in the program is optional, AAdvantage members (18 years or older) can enroll by opting in through their profile on aa.com. To confirm eligibility, AAdvantage members must be a TSA PreCheck user and provide their AAdvantage number, a valid passport and a Known Traveler Number (KTN). Enrollment is valid for one year and can be renewed annually.
In collaboration with TSA, American plans to expand the program to additional airports in the coming months, with a focus on hub airports such as Dallas-Fort Worth, Chicago and Miami.
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines is undergoing one of its biggest transformations yet, unveiling new fare bundles, seating options and enhanced benefits for Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers and Tier Members.
As of May 28, the airline introduced a new Basic fare, replacing the former Wanna Get Away option. This lowest-tier fare will offer more affordable prices with fewer flexibilities, including no refund or changes and standard seating assigned at check-in.
Coming later in Q3 2025, Southwest will launch three rebranded fare bundles:
Each option comes with its own set of various perks and benefits. Notably, only Choice Extra includes two free checked bags. To explore the full breakdown of each fare, see the image below.
Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers will also see new perks beginning in Q3 2025, including one free checked bag (for up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation), priority boarding and seat selection privileges, regardless of the fare type.
Cardmembers will continue to enjoy existing benefits like discounts on inflight purchases, bonus anniversary points and a 10,000-point Companion Pass boost each calendar year.
Additional benefits are also on the way for A-List and A-List Preferred Tier Members, including preferred seating, checked bags, earlier boarding and other inflight enhancements.
Checked bag benefits for Tier Members and Credit Cardmembers begin May 28, while assigned seating and boarding enhancements will roll out once the airline begins selling the new fare options.
These updates represent a big move for Southwest — designed to offer more choice, flexibility and comfort, all while maintaining the customer-focused service the airline is known for. For more details, visit the Southwest website.
United Airlines and JetBlue
As of May 29, United Airlines and JetBlue announced a surprising yet strategic alliance called “Blue Sky.” This new partnership will enable MileagePlus and TrueBlue members to enjoy a more integrated travel experience across both carriers.
Key features include:
A notable aspect of the partnership is United’s return to New York City’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), where it plans to launch up to seven daily flights using slots transferred from JetBlue. United is expected to begin service out of JFK’s Terminal 6 as early as 2027.
Meanwhile, JetBlue will access eight flight slots at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) also through a reciprocal exchange. Lastly, United will also adopt JetBlue’s in-house Paisly platform for hotel, rental car and vacation package bookings.
The Blue Sky partnership strengthens both airlines’ East Coast presence and unlocks expanded global earning and redemption opportunities — particularly for JetBlue travelers, who will gain access to United’s extensive international network.