Dublin, July 22, 1999: British Airways today welcomed the Irish Government`s decision to endorse plans for its alliance with Aer Lingus.

The two airlines plan to code-share extensively on each others flights and offer reciprocal benefits and rewards to frequent flyers of both carriers.

In the longer term both companies intend to deepen the alliance, co-operating in many areas.

John Patterson, Director of Alliances at British Airways said,: “I am delighted that the Irish government has given the go ahead to our alliance with Aer Lingus. Ireland is an important market for us and we look forward to a close partnership with Aer Lingus.

“This agreement will bring considerable advantages to customers of both British Airways and Aer Lingus, in particular by creating easier access to fly to a wide range of destinations to and from Ireland and by linking two airline brands well known for their high quality.”

American Airlines also confirmed today that it has been given the go ahead to form an alliance with the Dublin-based carrier.

——-