Qantas, Emirates seek ACCC approval of partnership
Posted September 10th, 2012 and last modified September 30th, 2012Sydney, Sept 10th, 2012 – Two global Airline powerhouses have set the ball rolling on what could become the most successful partnership in aviation history. Qantas and Emirates both made submissions to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) hoping their proposed partnership will be approved
The airlines recently announced they’d be joining forces in a bid to create a worldwide aviation partnership which would give consumers and unrivaled international network, along with incentives, Frequent Flyer points, and the ultimate world-wide travel experience
The move will see Qantas shift its European flight hub to Dubai, before beginning a 10-year commercial partnership with Emirates. Despite some early skepticism the airlines have been quick to deny the partnership will be a mere code sharing exercise
The airlines will collaborate on pricing, marketing, and flight scheduling, along with a proposed benefit sharing program. If the ACCC gives the partnership its approval, the airlines aim to begin operations together in April 2013
As part of the submissions Qantas and Emirates described the benefits the collaboration will have for customers. Some of the benefits outlined were:
A larger global network, giving consumers better connections, and a greater choice for passengers flying from Australia and New Zealand travelling anywhere in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East
Better connections and a wider choice of routes for Emirates passengers
Enhanced benefits for members of both airlines frequent flyer programs. There would be a much greater chance for passengers to earn points
A commitment to building a long term partnership, combining the experience of two major airlines to deliver passengers an all round better service and travel experience
Other notable benefits outlined in the submission were:
The joining of both airlines resources would result in lower operating costs, meaning the airlines could offer customers more competitive prices
Qantas would be able to reschedule its current services to Asia, and this would mean customers would have access to same-day connections
Emirates would be able to establish itself in Australia giving consumers a greater choice of flights; this would happen without them taking a stake in Qantas
Qantas and Emirates are happy to commit to not reducing trans-Tasman capacity. This should ease any concerns a partnership would result in reduced capacity. Qantas may also begin flying new routes including Perth to Auckland, and Adelaide to Auckland
As a partnership, Qantas and Emirates will fly 98 services a week between Australia and Dubai. Customers of Qantas will have access to over 70 European, African, and Middle Eastern destinations covered by Emirates. Emirates customers won’t miss out because they’ll benefit from the domestic network offered by Qantas
The deal certainly looks promising for Australian travelers, and could see the formation of a new aviation super-power. For now the champagne is on ice until the ACCC makes its decision
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