Delta-Korean Air joint venture gets approvals, prepares for launch

Flight attendants for Korean Air walk on Concourse F in the Internal Terminal at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport.

Credit: AJC

Credit: AJC

Flight attendants for Korean Air walk on Concourse F in the Internal Terminal at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport.

Delta Air Lines said its planned joint venture with Korean Air has been approved by the U.S. and Korean authorities, and it is preparing to launch the cross-border venture.

The joint venture, which expands on a long-time partnership between Atlanta-based Delta and Korean Air, will allow the two airlines to share costs and revenues on trans-Pacific flights and coordinate schedules. Atlanta-based Delta said the tie-up has received approvals from the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Korean Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport.

The launch of the partnership will bring “new destinations and travel options across Asia and North America,” according to a written statement from Delta CEO Ed Bastian.

The two airlines plan to soon launch full “code-share” marketing to allow booking of more itineraries across the two carriers, reciprocal frequent flier benefits and other moves.

Delta said it expects the Seoul Incheon airport "will continue to grow as a major Asia gateway for Delta and Korean Air."

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