Air Canada and Emirates have signed a strategic partnership agreement to create more options for customers on their networks.
The carriers will start a codeshare deal later this year, so customers can book connecting travel between both airlines’ networks with a single ticket, connectivity at the carriers’ global hubs in Toronto and Dubai and baggage transfers to their final destinations.
Michael Rousseau, president and chief executive at Air Canada, said: “As we continue pursuing our strategy of expanding our global reach in response to growing opportunities in VFR markets (visiting friends and relatives) that serve Canada’s large multicultural communities, we are very pleased to form a strategic partnership with Emirates, a highly respected flag carrier of the United Arab Emirates with a hub in the vibrant city of Dubai.
“Air Canada customers will have additional, convenient options when travelling between Canada and the United Arab Emirates as well as destinations beyond Dubai.
“We look forward to introducing Air Canada codeshare service on key Emirates flights, as well as adding the EK code on select Air Canada flights, and welcoming Emirates customers on our services later this year.”
Sir Tim Clark, president at Emirates Airline, added: “This is a significant partnership that will enable our customers access to even more destinations in Canada and the Americas, via our Toronto and US gateways.
“It also opens up many new route combinations for travellers across Emirates’ and Air Canada’s extensive networks in the Americas, the Middle East, Africa and Asia.”
The carriers will also establish reciprocal frequent-flyer benefits and reciprocal lounge access for qualifying customers.