JAL, Aeroflot launch comprehensive partnership

Japan Airlines and Russian airline Aeroflot have signed an MOU for a strategic cooperation agreement to pursue commercial opportunities which will greatly benefit the customers of both airlines by providing more options for travel between Russia and Japan. Since the relaxation of visa requirements to the nationals of Japan and Russia from January 1, 2017, the demand between the two countries has been steadily increasing and the two airlines have agreed to work together to further stimulate travel between the two countries. As a first step, JAL and Aeroflot agreed to start codeshare cooperation between Japan and Russia as well as Aeroflot's domestic flights, and JAL's domestic and international flights. The first stage of the codeshare cooperation is planned to be implemented after fiscal year 2018. In addition to the codeshare cooperation, JAL and Aeroflot will pursue the development of the partnership in various areas, including frequent flyer programs, airport relocation, while considering a joint business in the future.<br/>