Oneworld has announced that Alaska Airlines intends to join the alliance by summer 2021, with the carrier also planning to form a partnership with American Airlines.
If the carrier’s application is approved, Alaska Mileage Plan loyalty members will be able to earn and redeem miles through Oneworld member airlines’ global network.
In addition, Alaska Airlines plans to form a US West Coast international alliance with Oneworld founding member American Airlines that will see the carriers expand their existing codeshare agreement to international routes from Los Angeles and Seattle, from which American Airlines is launching flights to Bangalore and Heathrow.
Ben Minicucci, president of Alaska Airlines, said: “Alaska has always been proud to serve Seattle, the city that we call home. We’re thrilled to give our guests more choice, broader use of loyalty benefits and seamless global service with American and Oneworld. Additionally, international service to global business and tech hubs Heathrow and Bangalore is a tremendous win for the growing Seattle region and the West Coast.”
Robert Isom, president of American Airlines, added: “Alaska Airlines has been an outstanding partner for nearly 40 years, and we’re excited to expand West Coast international service together. By connecting American’s strength in long-haul international flying and Alaska’s presence across the West Coast, we will build a better network for our customers than either airline could build alone. Together, we will deliver more value, benefits and choice for customers across the US and around the globe.”
American Airlines’ flights to Bangalore launch in October 2020, with the Heathrow service due to follow in March 2021.
oneworld.com; aa.com; alaskaair.com