TAIWAN’S largest carrier China Airlines has joined forces with three China-based airlines to form a regional alliance to capitalise on the lucrative cross-strait routes, a move that will challenge competitors such as Cathay Pacific.
Besides China Airlines, the alliance comprises China Southern Airlines, China Eastern Airlines and Xiamen Airlines, all of which are members of SkyTeam.
The alliance is aimed mainly at frequent flyers, spurred by rising demand for direct flights amid closer business and political relations between Taiwan and mainland China.
The four carriers offer more than 270 weekly flights between China and Taiwan, or about half of the total market, according to a joint statement by the airlines. Together, the alliance will also provide 280 round-trip weekly flights via Hong Kong.
With the alliance, frequent travellers with any of the four airlines will be able to enjoy benefits such as mileage accumulation and airport lounge access, the companies said.
