Saturday, November 03, 2007 PAL launches code-sharing program with UAE carrier
PHILIPPINE Airlines (PAL) and Etihad Airways have started a code-share service between Manila and Abu Dhabi, with Etihad as the operating carrier.
This is PAL’s first commercial partnership with another carrier since emerging from receivership last Sept. 28.
The code-share agreement, which became operational on Oct. 4, gives PAL a seat allocation on Etihad’s daily service between Manila and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) capital, as PAL widens its network of alliances in its post-rehabilitation phase.
The Philippine flag carrier has code-share agreements with eight international carriers that enable it to serve eight destinations from Manila and three from Cebu. PAL also has an extensive code-share partnership with Air Philippines on the latter’s domestic network.
Industry practice
Code-sharing is a widespread industry practice in which two or more airlines offer a joint product to the traveling public. The partner carriers are active participants in the arrangement, with both combining their sales and promotional muscle to develop markets, leading to better deals for passengers.
The code-share service with Etihad is marketed and sold in the Philippines and the UAE as joint PAL/Etihad flights.
PAL has designated Etihad’s Manila-Abu Dhabi flight as PR 621, departing daily at 4 p.m. with same-day arrival in the UAE capital at 8:25 p.m. The Abu-Dhabi-Manila service is known as PR 628, with daily departures at 2:05 a.m. and arrival at 2:30 p.m. the same day.
All flights are operated using Etihad’s Boeing 777-300 widebody aircraft.
Code-share passengers holding confirmed tickets connecting to PAL’s domestic or international flights are provided free transfer service between the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1 and PAL’s hub at NAIA Centennial Terminal 2. (PR)
