MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

American Airlines and OpenSkies sign new code-share agreement

Patrick Malval, OpenSkies Managing Director, very pleased with the deal

American Airlines and OpenSkies, a premium subsidiary of British Airways, American's oneworld® and trans-Atlantic joint business partner, have signed a new code-share agreement that gives American's customers more travel options when flying to and from Europe and OpenSkies customers easier access to major business markets in the United States.

The agreement allows American to place its code on OpenSkies flights between Newark Liberty International Airport and Paris Orly Airport. The code-share also extends connecting opportunities via Newark Liberty to Dallas/Fort Worth, Chicago O'Hare, Los Angeles and Miami.

OpenSkies creates a luxurious environment for its customers by offering all premium seating with a choice of large seats that convert to fully flat beds as well as seats that recline to 140 degrees. The airline focuses on quality with a commitment to maintaining a close relationship with its passengers by operating a fleet of four specially designed Boeing 757s.

“This new code-share relationship will give our customers more opportunities to seamlessly connect to Europe while enjoying the premium experience OpenSkies has to offer,” said Kenji Hashimoto, American's Vice President – Strategic Alliances. “American and OpenSkies are looking into additional opportunities to enhance our relationship and offer our joint customers further benefits in the future.”

“We're very happy to announce this code share agreement with American Airlines, which gives our customers the benefits of American's extensive network,” said Patrick Malval, OpenSkies Managing Director. “This codes hare agreement will further develop into OpenSkies joining the joint business agreement between American Airlines, British Airways and Iberia effective Jan. 1, 2012, bringing added benefits for transatlantic travel.”

Through the joint business, customers benefit from better flight schedules, expanded code-sharing, more coordinated services, and greater access to a wider variety of fares.