AIR CANADA AND ALL NIPPON MATCH LOYALTIES
By Adnews Staff
Montreal-based Air Canada has announced a reciprocal frequent flyer alliance with All Nippon Airways, Japan's largest domestic airline. The two airlines have had a working relationship since 1994, coordinating schedules and engaging in joint marketing efforts, as well as working out a codesharing agreement on the Vancouver-Osaka route in 1996. This frequent flyer alliance is an intermediary step that will lead to ANA's full membership in the Star Alliance of international airline partners in October. "This is an extremely positive development for Air Canada, for Star Alliance and for our frequent flyers," said Air Canada's vice-president of marketing Rupert Duchesne. "It means more mileage accumulation opportunities and new reward destinations. The addition of another premium partner to Aeroplan demonstrates that, for customers, it is Canada's premier loyalty program."