JetBlue is reportedly discussing a potential partnership with United Airlines after its planned Northeast Alliance with American Airlines failed. The Department of Justice sued to block the alliance between the two airlines in 2021, characterizing it as anti-competitive.

JetBlue Airways and United Airlines have been negotiating a partnership, three industry sources familiar with the matter told Reuters.The New York-based airline has been seeking partnerships after a federal judge blocked its so-called Northeast Alliance with American Airlines in 2023.

The upgrade of the Polaris lounge at O’Hare is United’s latest salvo in the broader arms race for premium passengers that’s playing out across the commercial aviation industry. More customers are seeking, and paying for, perks ranging from extra legroom to lounge access.