Southwest Airlines vs JetBlue Airways
A detailed head-to-head comparison of Southwest Airlines and JetBlue Airways based on our 100-point scoring system.
Winner
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines — Domestic & Select International Flights
88/100
Very Good4.2
22,150 reviews
JetBlue Airways
JetBlue Airways — Domestic & Transatlantic Flights
85/100
Very Good4.1
13,870 reviews
Side-by-Side Comparison
Metric
Southwest Airlines
JetBlue Airways
Overall Score
88/100
85/100
Price
$150.00
$160.00
Customer Rating
4.2/5
4.1/5
Review Count
22,150
13,870
Best For
Best for Bag-Inclusive Value
Best Economy Comfort & Entertainment
About Page
Yes
Yes
Contact Info
Yes
Yes
Southwest Airlines — Score Breakdown
Flight Quality & Comfort15/20
Price & Value15/15
Route Network11/15
Loyalty Program8/10
Customer Service13/15
Punctuality & Reliability13/15
Baggage Policy13/10
JetBlue Airways — Score Breakdown
Flight Quality & Comfort18/20
Price & Value12/15
Route Network10/15
Loyalty Program7/10
Customer Service12/15
Punctuality & Reliability12/15
Baggage Policy14/10
Pros & Cons
Southwest Airlines
Two free checked bags on every fare — the clearest and most consistent cost advantage over competing US carriers.
No change or cancellation fees on any fare type, making Southwest the most flexible major US airline for travelers with uncertain plans.
Rapid Rewards points never expire on active accounts, and the Companion Pass is one of the highest-value companion benefits in US aviation.
Open seating model is divisive — travelers who want to pre-select a specific seat or guarantee adjacent seats for families must pay for EarlyBird Check-In or rely on early 24-hour check-in.
No alliance membership and no interlining with other carriers limits usefulness for complex international itineraries.
No seatback screens and limited premium product options make Southwest less competitive for long-haul or business travelers seeking elevated comfort.
JetBlue Airways
Best economy legroom among major US carriers at 32–34 inch seat pitch on most aircraft.
Free seatback entertainment and free Wi-Fi included on every flight — no personal device or paywall required.
Mint business class is widely rated the best-value lie-flat product on US domestic and transatlantic routes.
On-time performance at approximately 78% is below the US major carrier average, with New York hub operations particularly susceptible to delay cascades.
No global alliance membership limits partner earning and redemption options for international travelers outside JetBlue's core markets.
TrueBlue program value is moderate — earning rates and redemption flexibility are competitive but not class-leading compared with Alaska Mileage Plan or Delta SkyMiles for high-frequency flyers.
Our Verdict
Southwest Airlines comes out ahead with a score of 88/100 compared to 85/100. Southwest Airlines is best for best for bag-inclusive value. However, JetBlue Airways may be a better fit if you prioritize best economy comfort & entertainment.
Airline pricing, routes, and policies are subject to change without notice. Always verify details directly with the airline before booking.