More flights, convenient schedules, access to a greater variety of fares, easier connections and more opportunities for mileage promotions: These are a few of the benefits consumers could gain from the launch of the first phase of American Airlines and Japan Airlines’ trans-Pacific joint business, beginning April 1. To celebrate, the airlines are launching a joint commemorative trans-Pacific economy class airfare for sale in Japan, beginning today, for travel between Feb. 1 and March 31, 2011.
American said it was building on the momentum generated in 2010, when American and oneworld members British Airways and Iberia Airlines launched trans-Atlantic joint business between North America and Europe, and continues to grow stronger in travel-heavy cities. The joint business with Japan Airlines capitalizes on the two airlines' leadership positions in Tokyo, New York, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, and Los Angeles – some of the most important travel markets.
The airlines, after receiving regulatory approvals from the Japanese Government and the U.S. Department of Transportation, are using a phased approach to bring travel choices and benefits to consumers as quickly as possible and to maximize the value for stakeholders.
The airlines will launch more inclusive flight schedules, expanded codesharing, more coordinated services, and greater access to a wider variety of fares. Japan Airlines will also co-locate in American's Terminal 3 at Chicago O'Hare International Airport effective March 27, when Japan Airlines' summer schedule begins. Additional consumer benefits over the coming months are expected as the cooperation level deepens between the two airlines.
The joint business will apply to nonstop flights on 10 routes initially. It is expected to be expanded upon obtaining the required approval from authorities of third-party countries to add routes linking destinations beyond Japan and North America. Japan Airlines and American exchanged data and analyzed traffic patterns and consumer demand. Japan Airlines and American plan to share revenue generated from operations over the Pacific, regardless of which airline carries the customer, beginning April 1, 2011.
"We are pleased to partner with Japan Airlines to bring expanded benefits to our customers," said Tom Horton, president of American Airlines. "We firmly believe our joint business will benefit all stakeholders – our customers, our financial partners, and our employees. Japan Airlines has been an excellent partner, and together, we are preparing for the next decade – a decade that is likely to see growth in air travel between North America and Asia."
Visit www.aa.com/moreasia.