Delta and WestJet ink transborder joint venture deal
Delta Air Lines and Canada’s WestJet are moving forward with their planned joint venture.
The carriers have signed a definitive agreement to form a comprehensive transborder JV which will create an extensive route network across the US and Canada.
It significantly expands the existing codeshare partnership and follows an initial memorandum of understanding agreed late last year which outlined the formation of a JV.
"Delta’s future is global and together with WestJet, we can augment the two airlines’ capabilities and bring together our strengths in this important trans-border market," said Delta CEO Ed Bastion.
"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."
The airlines say it will cover about 95% of customer demand for travel between the countries to and from 30 cities.
They will further enhance codesharing, align frequent flyer programs and locate together at major airport hubs to improve efficiency if the JV is approved.by Canadian and US regulators.
"We are looking forward to providing enhanced offerings and more choice for guests. The joint venture will allow us to maximize our existing partnership with Delta to benefit customers," said Ed Sims, WestJet CEO.
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