MUMBAI: Japan Airlines (JAL) and IndiGo have announced their codeshare partnership, commencing December 16, subject to government approval. Booking for these codeshare flights will open on December 4, IndiGo said in a press statement issued on Monday.
The codeshare will allow passengers of both airlines to seamlessly book tickets and onwards journeys within India and Japan.
But it will be unrolled in phases. “The collaboration will initially allow JAL to broaden its reach in India, with future phases enabling IndiGo passengers to access JAL’s comprehensive network,” said the IndiGo statement. For passengers from Japan, the partnership provides access to 18 Indian destinations, benefiting tourists and business travellers alike. IndiGo, India’s largesr carrier with over 60% market share, will begin codesharing on domestic routes connecting to JAL flights operating to/from Delhi and Bengaluru.
JAL currently operates daily flights between Tokyo (Haneda) and Delhi, alongside five weekly services between Tokyo (Narita) and Bengaluru. This partnership with IndiGo enables JAL to establish an extensive network across major Indian cities via their operated flights.
Abhijit DasGupta, Senior Vice President Network Planning & Revenue Management, IndiGo said : “We are delighted to introduce new options for connectivity between India and Japan. This codeshare agreement will further strengthen business, trade and tourism related travel between India and Japan. It will also enable passengers of both airlines to explore some of the most culturally rich destinations in India and Japan, known for their history, culinary experiences, nightlife and significant landmarks. At a time when both the countries are strategically working together, this codeshare will add to the strengthening bilateral ties between India and Japan. This expansion is a part of IndiGo’s commitment to delivering on its promise of affordable, on-time, courteous, and hassle-free travel experience across an unparalleled network.”
Ross Leggett, Managing Executive Officer, Senior Vice President Route Marketing, Japan Airlines, said: “We are thrilled to announce our new codeshare partnership with IndiGo, the airline with the largest domestic network in India, renowned for its high-quality service. This partnership will enable travelers between India and Japan to book their flights on a single ticket, enjoying the exceptional services of both IndiGo and Japan Airlines. India has seen remarkable economic growth in recent years, which is leading to a significant increase in air travel demand between Japan and India. Both carriers are excited to embark on this partnership, aiming to further contribute to the market by providing customers with more convenient and seamless travel options. We believe that this collaboration will not only enhance connectivity between the two countries but also foster stronger cultural and economic ties.”
