All Nippon Airways filed an application with the Japanese Government for antitrust immunity to launch a joint venture with Lufthansa German Airlines on routes between Japan and Europe, allowing the two carriers to bring substantial benefits to passengers by creating a more efficient and comprehensive service across their networks. Subject to approval of the application by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, ANA and Lufthansa will be able to jointly manage their Japan-Europe operations in areas such as scheduling, pricing and sales. This will give customers a greater choice of connections and a wider range of fare and service options.
"By forging this closer cooperation with one of our partner airlines in the Star Alliance, we will significantly enhance our ability to serve customers throughout Europe and offer new choice and convenience for passengers. We are looking forward to our application being approved," said Shinichiro Ito, President and CEO of ANA.
