NATIONAL airline Fiji Airways has been announced as global airline alliance oneworld’s first-ever connect partner.
In a statement, the global airline network revealed Fiji Airways nomination was endorsed by founding members Qantas, American Airlines, British Airways and Cathay Pacific.
The CEOs of Fiji Airways, oneworld, Qantas, American Airlines, British Airways and Cathay Pacific at the press conference in Sydney happening this hour on the sidelines of the IATA Annual General Meeting. Picture: SUPPLIED
According to the company, the partnership will allow Fiji Airways customers to access services in a wide range of network under the alliance.
Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce said as a founding member of oneworld, it was great to see the alliance evolve to bring additional benefits to more customers and expand its joint network.
“We’ve worked closely with Fiji Airways for many years and are pleased to serve as its mentor as it comes on board as the first oneworld connect partner,” Mr Joyce said.
American Airlines chairman and CEO Doug Parker said they were excited to be playing a part in this latest key development.
He said oneworld would now have access to the South Pacific more attractively than ever.
“British Airways looks forward to developing links with Fiji Airways as a oneworld connect partner and sponsor, for the benefit of both our airlines, our customers and the wider oneworld community,” said British Airways chairman and CEO Alex Cruz.
Meanwhile, Cathay Pacific CEO Rupert Hogg added they were proud of the advancements made by oneworld.
“Cathay Pacific was proud to play our part in founding oneworld 20 years ago and establishing it as the leading quality alliance, and we are proud today to be playing our part again in getting this exciting new membership platform oneworld connect off the ground, as a sponsor of our long-term code-share partner Fiji Airways,” Mr Hogg said.
