QF/EK partnership details revealed.
Qantas and Emirates have just announced the formal lodgement of their application to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission for the proposed wide-ranging partnership between the carriers (TD Thu).
The document includes extensive cooperation including coordinated pricing, sales and scheduling as well as a “benefit-sharing model” on a significantly expanded global network to be offered by the alliance partners.
A range of benefits are outlined including provoking more competitive fares and product/service offerings from rival carriers, and the fact that it will allow Qantas to retime its existing services into Asia and provide better same-day connections to other destinations.
A long-term business model will be established to optimise the operating performance of both carriers, including by reducing operating costs.
And “Emirates’ long-term growth strategy in Australia will be materially enhanced and expedited by the partnership for the benefit of Australian consumers, without Emirates taking any equity stake in Qantas,” the carriers said.
They have also confirmed that they are willing to offer a formal commitment not to reduce overall trans-Tasman capacity, adding that QF is considering introducing flights on routes it doesn’t currently fly including Adelaide-Auckland and Perth-Auckland.
More information in tomorrow’s Travel Daily.