In what Qantas called “a world first for low cost airlines”, Jetstar and AirAsia will form a non-equity alliance that aimed at reducing costs and pooling expertise.
Key to the agreement is a proposed joint specification for the next generation of narrow body aircraft.
Both airline groups will also investigate opportunities for the joint procurement of aircraft.
The partnership details were outlined at a media conference in Sydney today.
AirAsia Group CEO Tony Fernandes said, “With joint purchasing power it means that we can potentially work with airline manufacturers on the right configuration and design of an aircraft specifically for AirAsia and that best suits our operational needs for the future.”
Qantas offshoot Jetstar is being primed to expand its routes in Asia and into Europe.
