Alliance, what alliance?
By IAG | November 8th, 2012 | Posted in Aviation News | No CommentsThis is odd news given the penchant for airlines to find alliances.
Air New Zealand and Cathay Pacific announced a new strategic agreement on services operated by both airlines between New Zealand and Hong Kong, effective from 31 January 2013. Sales will commence on 12 December 2012. The agreement between the two airlines has been granted required regulatory approval. Under the new agreement, both airlines will code-share on all their services between New Zealand and Hong Kong. Improved and better-coordinated flight schedules are expected to increase connection opportunities and enhance connectivity to destinations in China via Hong Kong and beyond Auckland resulting in greater convenience for travelers.
So, with Cathy in oneworld and ANZ in Star – what does this mean? Are alliances no longer enough? Are the two airlines looking at the Emirates/Qantas move and feeling forced to seek mutual protection? Note also the recent changes at Virgin Australia with SIA and Jetstar. Its truly upside down down under. The enemy of my enemy is my friend? Or are ANZ and Cathay the ugly ducklings with only each other left to tie up with.
