Ryanair into codeshare talks with Virgin Atlantic Airways

Leading low cost carrier Ryanair is presently holding negotiations with some of the long-haul airlines for a possible codeshare partnership. Media reports said that the airline has already contacted Virgin Atlantic Airways and Aer Lingus for the talks, which are in advanced stage.

If the Irish carrier Ryanair finally succeeds in clinching a codeshare with either Virgin Atlantic Airways or Aer Lingus, it would prove to be beneficial for the airline’s customers as they would be able to directly connect onto a long-haul flight without going again through check in or collecting their bags. This would also be viewed as a major groundbreaking feat for a budget carrier to enter into codeshare agreement with leading international airlines.

The reports said that the customers of Ryanair would be able to directly book long-haul flights to Caribbean, United States or South America, which are not being currently served by the airline. This will also be for the first time that such a codeshare pact is being entered into be a low-cost carrier with a long-haul operator.

A spokeswoman for Ryanair said that the airline is making efforts to shed its no-frills image by introducing a business class service on some flights and cutting back on punitive fees. It has also been seen that the long-haul carriers have always wanted to tap into the airline’s extensive European network. Under the codeshare arrangement, the long-haul carrier which enters into partnership with Ryanair would be picking up the tab for airport transfer and baggage fees and would also be responsible for paying compensation in the event of delays.