Emirates and Qantas have welcomed the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) draft determination that proposes to grant authorization for their partnership for five years.
The partnership will provide customers with a seamless international and Australian network, exclusive frequent flyer benefits and world‐class travel experiences.
ACCC approval is required for Emirates and Qantas to coordinate on pricing, sales and capacity.
The ACCC has issued a draft determination with a final decision due in March 2013. The implementation of the partnership remains subject to the ACCC's final determination and regulatory approval in other jurisdictions.
Since announcing the proposed partnership in September, Emirates and Qantas have started initial preparations that do not require regulatory approval, including connecting IT systems, designing frequent flyer benefits and establishing an operational base for Qantas in Dubai.
Submissions to the ACCC made in support of the Emirates-Qantas partnership included the Commonwealth Department of Infrastructure and Transport, the Victorian and Queensland state governments, Australian Tourism Export Council and the National Tourism Alliance. A final decision is expected from the ACCC in March 2013. The partnership is scheduled to start in April 2013.
Source: Emirates