OpenSkies to join airline alliance oneworld as affiliate member
OpenSkies, the premium service subsidiary of British Airways, will become an affiliate member of the oneworld airline alliance starting December 1, 2012. The move extends alliance benefits to its passengers.
OpenSkies, a subsidiary of British Airways specializing in premium air travel between the USA and continental Europe, is set to join the oneworld global airline alliance as an affiliate member beginning December 1, 2012. This integration aims to enhance travel options for frequent international flyers.
The airline currently operates two daily round trips between Paris Orly and Newark. Starting March, frequencies will increase to three daily round trips with the addition of a Paris Orly to New York JFK route. OpenSkies is noted for being the only airline serving US routes from Paris Orly's West Terminal.
All OpenSkies flights utilize Boeing 757 aircraft configured with three distinct classes: Biz Bed, featuring lie-flat seats, Prem Plus, an upscale premium economy, and Eco, a standard economy class. Passengers receive in-flight entertainment via personal iPads.
As an affiliate member, OpenSkies will offer the full spectrum of oneworld services and benefits. This includes reciprocal mileage earning and redemption, tier status points accrual across the alliance network, and lounge access for top-tier frequent flyer members of oneworld airlines.
Launched in 2008 by British Airways, OpenSkies has carried half a million passengers. It operates a fleet of three Boeing 757-200 aircraft. Alongside its 11 full member airlines, oneworld includes approximately 30 affiliate members, typically regional carriers with strong ties to alliance main members.