Saudi Arabian Airlines, which joined the 16-member SkyTeam global alliance recently, has started implementing code-share agreements with the alliance’s member airlines, allowing its passengers to select suitable carriers to reach their final destinations.
“We have started marketing this service to passengers traveling to a number of European destinations, in preparation to apply the same to all destinations to which SkyTeam airlines operate their flights,” said Abdullah Al-Ajhar, vice president for public relations.
SkyTeam, which includes Air France, Alitalia, China Airlines, Delta Air Lines, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Korean Air, Aeroflot, Aeroméxico and Air Europa, offers more than 14,700 flights for nearly 530 million passengers to its 958 destinations in 173 countries.
“We have started applying code-share service or commercial exchange between member airlines. A passenger can now travel to Munich, Vienna, Barcelona and Amsterdam using the same ticket. There will not be any change in the flight number,” he explained.
Al-Ajhar said the new code-share system would give passengers a lot of new options to reach their destinations at competitive rates.
“We have set up a working team to enlighten passengers about SkyTeam services.”
Saudia passengers traveling on SkyTeam member airlines would receive special services such as priority boarding, landing, baggage clearance and extra baggage allowance in addition to facilities of special lounges.
“They will receive a variety of excellent services, before, during and after the flight, including completion of travel procedures at special counters,” he said.
Saudia signed the SkyTeam agreement on May 29, 2012, becoming the first airline in the Middle East to join the alliance. Khaled Al-Molhem, director general of the airline signed the deal with SkyTeam Managing Director Michael Wisbrun during a ceremony at King Abdulaziz International Airport.
Al-Ajhar emphasized the strategic dimension of the SkyTeam agreement. "The strategic location of Saudia between the east and the west gives the alliance a strategic dimension," he told Arab News. He expected at least 20 percent increase in Saudia passenger numbers as a result of the deal.
"It will also enable Saudia to give customers quick connections to destinations anywhere in the world. Saudi students in the US, Europe, New Zealand, Japan and other parts of the world can now fly without any hassle," he added.
Al-Ajhar said code-share agreements with member airlines would help Saudia passengers enjoy special fares. SkyTeam's America, Asia, China, Europe, Italy and Mexico fare passes allow customers who purchase a trans-Atlantic, trans-Pacific or inter-continental ticket to America, Asia or Europe to also purchase three or more one-way intra-region flight segments at reduced fares.