Japanese MLIT approves immunity enabling United, Continental, ANA Trans-Pacific joint venture
22-Oct-2010 United Airlines, Continental Airlines and ANA were granted antitrust immunity (ATI) by the Japanese Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transportation and Tourism, in accordance with the Civil Aeronautics Act, enabling the carriers to establish a joint venture and to combine their trans-Pacific networks.
The U.S. Dept. of Transportation granted United, Continental and ANA tentative ATI approval on Oct. 6, 2010. Upon final approval by DOT and completion of an open skies agreement between the United States and Japan, the three carriers intend to begin implementation of their joint venture in spring 2011.
The carriers intend to jointly develop flight schedules and sales activities. As a result, those customers traveling between the Americas and Asia will enjoy a more convenient flight schedule with a wider range of fare and product options.