Finnair to fly on board oneworld

10 December 1998

American Airlines, British Airways, Canadian Airlines, Cathay Pacific Airways, and Qantas Airways today welcomed Finnair as the first new recruit to oneworld™, since they announced the global airline alliance in September.

As a leading northern European carrier, Finnair adds a valuable network to the group's worldwide presence.

Speaking on behalf of the oneworld members, Bob Ayling, Chief Executive of British Airways, said: "This is an important milestone for oneworld as Finnair is the first airline to join since we established the alliance. We are extremely pleased to welcome Finnair to the group. Its extensive network in northern Europe and the high quality of its services will further enhance what oneworld will offer to its customers."

Antti Potila, Chief Executive Officer of Finnair, said: "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. We are excited by the opportunities that being a member of the world's leading alliance will offer us."

Finnair flies to over 60 destinations worldwide, including 21 in Finland and a further 39 elsewhere in Europe. The airline employs 8,570 people and operates a fleet of 58 aircraft. Finnair is presently assessing the time that it will require for training employees in preparation for offering oneworld services and benefits and is planning to be able to participate in the alliance from the latter half of 1999.

Full details of the services and benefits to be offered by oneworld will be announced early next year, with implementation following shortly afterwards.

Notes to editors:

oneworld™ will enable each carrier to offer customers services and products that it cannot provide by itself, responding to changes in the global airline marketplace.

These will include:


  • smoother transfers for passengers travelling across the global networks of the oneworld™ member carriers.


  • greater support, with employees of each airline equipped to assist and care for customers travelling with any of the oneworld™ airlines.


  • greater value, through a range of round-the-world products.


  • the intention to enhance existing co-operation between the airlines in the field of frequent flyer programmes, enabling them in particular to provide more mileage awards, wider recognition for top-tier customers and access to more airport clubs and lounges.

While it does not specifically apply to their cargo activities, the airlines involved are working on a series of initiatives to enable them to offer improved services to their freight and mail customers.

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