Qantas and American Airlines are planning to launch new routes under a joint business deal.
The US Department of Transportation has tentatively approved an arrangement that would allow for commercial integration between Qantas and American Airlines.
The carriers have flagged an intention to announce details of two new routes – Brisbane-Chicago and Brisbane-San Francisco – once final approval is received.
The tie-up promises to deliver “new routes and significant customer benefits not possible through any other form of cooperation”.
It would see an expanded codeshare relationship and optimised services on trans-Pacific services, lower fares, additional frequent flyer benefits, co-location at airports, investments in lounges, baggage systems and other infrastructure.
Final approval is expected in the next few weeks.
More in today’s edition of Travel Daily.