Emirates
and Qantas have welcomed the Australian Competition and Consumer
Commission’s (ACCC) approval of their partnership for a period of
five years.
The
partnership will provide customers with a seamless international and
Australian network, frequent flyer benefits and world-class travel
experiences.
Today’s
decision follows a six month review process by the ACCC that included
several rounds of public submissions, a pre-decision conference and a
comprehensive analysis of the benefits the partnership will deliver
to customers.
“This
is a truly game-changing partnership that brings together two of the
world’s best airlines and offers some of the highest quality travel
experiences,” said Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline.
Chief
Executive Officer of the Qantas Group Alan Joyce said the decision
was great news for Australian travellers and local tourism, as well
as the airline itself.
“Qantas
is an Australian icon and the future of its international business is
much brighter with this partnership,” said Mr Joyce.
“Customers
are already responding very strongly to the joint network that Qantas
and Emirates have built, and to the frequent flyer benefits that
extend across it, with a significant increase in bookings.”
