Air China and Singapore Airlines (SIA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a commercial joint venture partnership, marking a significant step in expanding cooperation between the two Star Alliance members.
Subject to regulatory approvals, the agreement will see the airlines explore a broader codeshare partnership covering additional destinations between Singapore and mainland China, within China and beyond the two countries. The carriers also plan to coordinate flight schedules, develop joint fare products and pursue joint marketing and revenue-sharing arrangements.
The enhanced collaboration is expected to provide customers with greater travel flexibility, more route options and improved connectivity across both airlines’ networks.
As part of the agreement, Air China’s PhoenixMiles and Singapore Airlines’ KrisFlyer loyalty programmes will also strengthen cooperation, allowing members greater opportunities to earn and redeem miles while accessing enhanced rewards across both carriers.
The two airlines will further collaborate by sharing operational best practices in areas including ground handling, catering and in-flight services.
Qu Guangji, President, Air China, said:
“As members of Star Alliance, Singapore Airlines and Air China enjoy a solid foundation of long-standing cooperation. We will further deepen our bilateral partnership, broaden the scope of codeshare arrangements, enhance frequent flyer programme synergies, and vigorously promote our joint venture initiatives. By consistently delivering diversified travel products and premium services, we will continue to offer greater convenience and more travel options to passengers flying on China-Singapore air routes.”
Goh Choon Phong, Chief Executive Officer, Singapore Airlines, said:
“Singapore Airlines is pleased to embark on this strategic partnership with Air China, which has an extensive domestic and international network from its hubs in China. Together, we will offer customers more travel options, seamless connections, and enhanced convenience on flights between Singapore and China, and across our combined networks. Closer cooperation on services and frequent flyer programmes will further enhance the travel experience and create greater value for our customers. Our partnership will also support the growth of tourism, business, and cultural exchanges, strengthening economic and people-to-people ties while fostering deeper connections and shared opportunities between Singapore and China.”
The proposed joint venture reflects both airlines’ strategy to strengthen connectivity between Singapore and China while supporting growing demand for business and leisure travel. It is also expected to contribute to tourism growth and facilitate greater economic and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.
