Delta Air Lines and WestJet have cemented a joint venture agreement aimed at offering their passengers substantial reach into each other’s markets.
The signing of the definitive agreement comes after a memorandum of understanding was inked last year but is still subject to regulatory approval in both countries.
If approved, it will provide transborder service to more than 30 cities covering more than 95 percent of US-Canada demand.
The airlines intend to expand codesharing and more closely align their frequent flyer programs with reciprocal elite benefits.
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Joint growth across their US-Canada transborder networks will include locating key hubs.
Delta boss Ed Bastian said the joint-venture would provide “an unmatched passenger experience for customers traveling between the U.S. and Canada.’’
“Delta’s future is global and together with WestJet, we can augment the two airlines’ capabilities and bring together our strengths in this important transborder market,” Bastian said in the announcement.
“Combined, we will be able to offer more destinations to customers with an integrated network, superior airline products, improved airport connections and significantly enhanced frequent flyer benefits. ‘’
WestJet chief executive Ed Sims said the agreement marked a major milestone in the Canadian carrier’s drive towards becoming a global airline.
“Working together with Delta, the premier U.S. carrier, we are looking forward to providing enhanced offerings and more choice for guests,’’ he said.
“The joint venture will allow us to maximize our existing partnership with Delta to benefit customers by bringing greater competition to the trans-border market.”
Delta has a strong track record of partnering with airlines in Europe, Latin America, Asia and Australia.
The airline says these joint ventures connect complementary networks, allowing the carriers to expand service options, add more convenient connections, and provide a more seamless customer experience.
WestJet in 2017 signed a deal to order 10 Boeing 787 aircraft with an option for 10 more as part of its global transformation plans.
READ WestJet to expand with 787s.
It has also been building a portfolio of airline partners — including Air France, Qantas and KLM — as it expands its network of international destinations.
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