JetBlue's TrueBlue loyalty program has introduced a new option for travelers, allowing redemptions for lie-flat business class seats on Condor flights to Germany. This partnership creates a notable value for transatlantic travel using points, with fares starting at 54,000 TrueBlue points for a one-way ticket, plus taxes and fees.
This development is particularly relevant for individuals holding Citi ThankYou Rewards points or Chase Ultimate Rewards points, as these currencies can be transferred to TrueBlue at a 1:1 rate, maximizing their value for these specific redemptions.
Key Takeaways
- JetBlue TrueBlue members can now book Condor business class to Germany.
- One-way flights start at 54,000 TrueBlue points from certain East Coast cities.
- Citi ThankYou Rewards and Chase Ultimate Rewards offer 1:1 point transfers to TrueBlue.
- Condor's Airbus A330-900neo features lie-flat business class seats.
- Cash fares for these flights typically range from $1,200 to $3,500.
Condor Business Class Award Costs
Travelers can now use JetBlue TrueBlue points to book nonstop business-class awards on Condor to Frankfurt Airport (FRA) from several North American cities. The cost varies based on the departure gateway.
From New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) or Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), a one-way business class ticket costs 54,000 TrueBlue points, plus $14.10 in taxes and fees. This represents a strong value for transatlantic travel.
For departures from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), the cost is also 54,000 points, but with slightly higher taxes and fees at $60.60. These Northeast options offer the most competitive point redemption rates.
Other North American Departure Points
Travelers flying from other North American cities will see a higher point requirement. These gateways include Miami International Airport (MIA), Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), Portland International Airport (PDX), San Francisco International Airport (SFO), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), and Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC).
From these locations, a one-way business class ticket requires 99,900 TrueBlue points, plus $14.10 in taxes and fees. While higher than the East Coast options, this can still be more economical than other loyalty programs that use dynamic pricing for similar flights.
Quick Fact
Cash fares for a one-way Condor business class ticket to Germany typically range from $1,200 to $3,500. Using TrueBlue points can lead to significant savings for travelers.
Flying Condor Business Class
Condor operates Airbus A330-900neo aircraft for its long-haul routes. These planes feature a modern business class cabin. The layout is a 1-2-1 configuration, ensuring all passengers have direct aisle access. Seats convert into lie-flat beds, providing comfort for overnight flights.
The airline also offers special "Prime" seats in the front row of business class. These seats provide additional privacy and space for an enhanced experience. Condor is recognized as a European leisure carrier, and its direct flights to Germany are a key part of its network.
"This new partnership opens up a valuable opportunity for travelers looking to fly to Europe in business class without the high cash price," said a travel industry analyst. "The combination of reasonable point requirements and low taxes makes it an attractive option."
Background on Condor
Condor is a German leisure airline established in 1955. It specializes in flights to popular vacation destinations. The airline has recently upgraded its long-haul fleet, introducing new aircraft with modern amenities, including enhanced business class cabins.
Earning JetBlue TrueBlue Points
To take advantage of these Condor redemption opportunities, travelers need JetBlue TrueBlue points. Several major credit card reward programs allow transfers to TrueBlue. However, the transfer rates vary, impacting the efficiency of earning points for these flights.
The most efficient ways to earn points for this specific redemption are through Citi ThankYou Rewards and Chase Ultimate Rewards. Both programs offer a 1:1 transfer ratio to JetBlue TrueBlue. This means 54,000 Citi or Chase points convert directly to 54,000 TrueBlue points.
Other Transfer Options
- American Express Membership Rewards: Points transfer at a 250:200 rate. To get 54,000 TrueBlue points, you would need approximately 67,500 Membership Rewards points.
- Capital One Miles: These transfer at a 5:3 rate. To reach 54,000 TrueBlue points, you would need 90,000 Capital One miles.
Given these rates, Citi and Chase offer the most direct and cost-effective path to acquiring the necessary TrueBlue points for Condor business class awards.
Credit Card Welcome Offers for Points
Several credit cards currently offer substantial welcome bonuses that can quickly provide enough points for these redemptions. These offers are especially useful for new cardholders aiming to book Condor flights to Europe.
Recommended Credit Card Offers:
- Citi Strata Elite℠ Card: Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 in the first three months of account opening. These points can be transferred to TrueBlue at a 1:1 ratio.
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Earn 125,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening. These points also transfer 1:1 to TrueBlue.
- Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business℠: Earn 200,000 bonus points after spending $30,000 on purchases in the first six months of account opening. This is a significant bonus for business owners.
These welcome offers can provide more than enough points for a one-way business class ticket to Germany, and in some cases, enough for a round trip or multiple one-way tickets.
Conclusion
The new partnership between JetBlue's TrueBlue program and Condor offers a compelling value for business class travel to Europe. With one-way tickets to Germany starting at 54,000 TrueBlue points from select East Coast airports, this redemption option is competitive.
The ability to transfer points at a 1:1 ratio from Citi ThankYou Rewards and Chase Ultimate Rewards makes this an accessible "sweet spot" for many points and miles enthusiasts. Current credit card welcome offers further enhance the opportunity to accumulate the necessary points quickly. This option provides a way to experience lie-flat business class travel to Europe with lower point requirements and reduced surcharges compared to many other airline loyalty programs.
