QF, EK hail ACCC ruling

QANTAS and Emirates have welcomed the five-year Australian Competition and Consumer Commission re-authorisation of their alliance ( TD breaking news), saying the extended pact will deliver “expanded services, greater schedule choice, increased frequent flyer benefits and an ongoing commitment to the development of world class products and travel experiences”.

Qantas international ceo Alison Webster said the decision was an important milestone, with the evolving partnership reflecting changes in demand and allowing QF to leverage new technology.

“With three options to get to Europe: via Perth, Singapore and Dubai, and greater frequency across the Tasman, the ACCC’s decision allows us to continue to jointly provide the best network, the best service and the best frequent flyer programs,” she said.

Emirates chief commercial officer Theirry Antinori said EK looked forward to “progressing on the plans that will take the partnership to its next phase”.

The ACCC decision comes on the eve of tomorrow’s inaugural Qantas non-stop commercial flight from Perth to London, for the first time ever removing the “hop” from the Kangaroo Route.

More from QF9 in TD on Mon.