DOT grants airline permission to flight between LA and Shanghai, proposes immunity for Japan flights
October 8, 2010, 11:29 am
Some pilots could find themselves flying to Japan next year. The U.S. Department of Transportation has proposed to issue antitrust immunity to "oneworld" alliance and "Star Alliance" members.
The "oneworld" alliance members consist of American Airlines and Japan Airlines. United Airlines, Continental Airlines, and All Nippon Airways comprise the "Star Alliance."
If immunity is granted, the airlines will be able to coordinate operations and better serve passengers and cargo shipments with more travel options and competitive pricing. The move is dependent on an Open Skies agreement.
According to the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. currently has an Open Skies agreement in every region and with more than 90 partners.
The DOT has, however, agreed to allow American Airlines permission to conduct flights between Los Angeles and Shanghai. In a statement, American Airlines expressed its pleasure with the DOT's decision.
"We are very pleased that the United States Department of Transportation has granted us the authority and frequencies needed to begin new service between Los Angeles and Shanghai, the largest market for travel between the United States and China that is not presently served by a U.S. airline," says United Airlines.
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