The British Airways/ American Airlines-led oneworld alliance has added its second European member, with the confirmation that BA partner Finnair has joined the group.
The global alliance also includes Canadian Airlines, Cathay Pacific Airways and BA associate Qantas. The introduction of Finland's Helsinki-based flag carrier provides oneworld with important northern European links to counter the SAS component of rival Star.
"Joining an alliance has been a vital part of Finnair's long-term plans and we are extremely pleased to confirm our participation in oneworld so early on," says Finnair chief executive Antii Potila. BA chief executive Bob Ayling adds that the airline is "-extremely pleased to welcome Finnair to the group. Its extensive network in northern Europe will further enhance what oneworld will offer."
Finnair is a leading player in BA's Nordic Alliance and was always expected to join oneworld. It is likely to be followed by Iberia, in which BA and American are taking a 10% shareholding.
The Finnish carrier is examining the time required to retrain employees. It says it plans to be able to participate fully in the alliance from the latter half of next year. Finnair carries about 7.2 million passengers a year and operates to 60 destinations in 27 countries with 58 aircraft.
Source: Flight International
