Oneworld expands code-sharing and passenger services
The Oneworld airline alliance has expanded its code-sharing agreements, offering passengers easier access to more destinations and enhanced onboard and airport services.
The Oneworld airline alliance announced in February 2004 an expansion of its code-sharing agreements, making it easier for passengers to connect to a broader network of destinations. The alliance collectively serves 570 destinations in 135 countries.
American Airlines and British Airways have deepened their partnership. The AA code has been added to a range of BA flights from London Gatwick, complementing existing connections via London Heathrow. Conversely, the BA prefix has been placed on American Airlines flights to additional U.S. and Latin American destinations.
British Airways has also extended code-sharing with Iberia and is deepening links with Swiss International Air Lines, which is scheduled to join the alliance in mid-2004. Separately, Iberia is investing €100 million to upgrade its long-haul first and business class cabins, introducing fully flat beds and enhanced entertainment systems. The airline plans to reconfigure 21 aircraft by the end of 2005.
British Airways and Iberia will also offer Wi-Fi access in many of their airport lounges, starting by April for BA in London and in Madrid and Barcelona for Iberia. Qantas is launching direct flights from Brisbane to Los Angeles, and American Airlines is adding frequencies from key hubs, including a route from Glasgow to London Heathrow.