The U.S. Department of Transportation has proposed to grant antitrust immunity that would enable United Airlines, Continental Airlines and ANA to expand their alliance relationship.

Upon final approval of antitrust immunity and the signing of an Open Skies aviation agreement between the United States and Japan, United and Continental intend to establish with ANA a trans-Pacific joint venture, jointly managing activities including scheduling, pricing and sales and offering customers a greater selection of routings and a wider range of fare and service options.

“We are pleased with DOT’s action today, and look forward to offering our customers the full range of benefits under our alliance with ANA,” said Jeff Smisek, president and chief executive officer of United Airlines. “We thank the DOT for their thoughtful review, and look forward to final approval.”