All Nippon Airways and Singapore Airlines plan closer collaboration by signing a joint venture deal.
The two Star Alliance carriers aim to provide passengers with more seamless flight connectivity and access to a wider network.
The agreement, subject to regulatory approval, would allow the carriers to further strengthen co-operation on services between Singapore and Japan, as well as in key markets including Australia, India, Indonesia and Malaysia.
The joint venture plan goes beyond an existing partnership between the two airlines focused on codeshare flights, mileage programmes, lounge access and co-ordination on check-in baggage and connecting flights.
ANA already has joint ventures with United Airlines and Lufthansa while SIA co-operates with Air New Zealand, Lufthansa and SAS. SIA has also applied to form a pact with Malaysia Airlines.
ANA president and chief executive Yuji Hirako said: “We have worked closely with Singapore Airlines for many years and we are excited to take this partnership one step further.
“The joint venture will help ANA and Singapore Airlines build upon their reputation for superior service, further differentiating both airlines from the competition.”
SIA chief executive Goh Choon Phong added: “This proposed joint venture underscores our commitment to the important Japanese market and our valued partner ANA.
“Through this partnership, customers would be able to enjoy increased flight frequencies and travel convenience, and access the strong connectivity at both the Singapore and Tokyo air hubs, while enjoying the industry-leading products and services ANA and SIA are renowned for.”