Japan Airlines to Join Oneworld Global Airline Network

In a major move, Japan Airlines Corp has announced its intention to join the Oneworld global airline network, seeking to bolster its services and operations after a series of safety mishaps hurt its image.

On its part, Oneworld has welcomed announcement by Japan Airlines (JAL) that it intends to seek membership in the alliance. “Japan Airlines would be an ideal fit with Oneworld, as we have said often in the past,” said Oneworld managing partner John McCulloch.

“It is a high class carrier, with an excellent reputation for its customer service and management, and an enviable network that complements those of our existing members,” said McCulloch.

JAL is the largest carrier in the Asia-Pacific region. By virtually all measures, it would join American Airlines and British Airways as the largest members of the alliance. In terms of group revenues, it would become the largest member of Oneworld, according to an official statement.

American Airlines will be JAL´s primary Oneworld sponsor, supporting JAL through the various tasks to be completed before it can join the alliance. Cathay Pacific will assist American in that role.