Japan Airlines and British Airways’ joint business receive competition clearance

Japan Airlines recently announced its joint business with British Airways-owner IAG had received competition clearance. This will allow both British Airways and Japan Airlines flights to cooperate commercially on routes between Europe and Japan.

Japan Airlines' application seeking anti-trust immunity to co-operate on flights with British Airways was formally approved by the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.

Willie Walsh, Chief Executive of IAG, said that British Airways has been conducting flights to Japan for more than 60 years. He said that the new agreement will strengthen the ties and further enhance the airline’s relationship with Japan Airlines.

Walsh said that the British Airways and Japan Airlines joint business would be launched in March 2013. He also said that the revenue-sharing agreement would strengthen its oneworld alliance.

International Airlines Group (IAG) has been formed by the merger of British Airways and Iberia Airlines.

British Airways and American Airlines also have a similar agreement which allows both the carriers to share revenues and coordinate flight schedules.