n thai airways sale
ThaiAirways is being targeted by the world’s major carriers after the airline announced it is to sell 10% to a strategic partner. Favourites include Star Alliance partners Lufthansa, United Airlines and Singapore Airlines.
n FTO meets BAA
The Federation of Tour Operators has held a meeting with BAAchief executive Mike Hodgkinson to discuss ways of improving the airport experience for passengers. FTOchairman Martin Brackenbury was due to discuss the issues with Hodgkinson and four charter airline members, including Monarch Airlines and Air 2000.
n codeshare axed
CathayPacific is cancelling its codeshare agreement with British Midland on March 26. Instead, it will codeshare with Oneworld partner British Airways from Heathrow to Belfast, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Manchester. The British Midland deal covered joint Heathrow flights to Belfast, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Teesside.
n airtours launch
Airtoursis expected to announce it will move into the banking industry within the next few weeks following lengthy talks with Bank of Scotland. The tour operator is close to forming a partnership with the bank to launch an Internet service.
n BA to sell air liberte
BritishAirways is believed to be poised to sell off its French subsidiary and is also positioning itself to buy an Italian independent carrier. Reports from France said BA will sell its Air Liberte regional carrier to the Swissair-owned French international airline AOM.