JAL, Malaysia Airlines clear regulatory hurdle for joint venture

Japan Airlines and Malaysia Airlines are on track to launch a joint venture, after both carriers received regulatory approval. The Malaysian Aviation Commission has granted individual exemption, while Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism granted antitrust immunity. With the regulatory hurdle cleared, both carriers will begin cooperating commercially on flights between Malaysia and Japan next year. It was also reported that the joint venture would allow the two carriers to co-ordinate schedules, capacity, sales and marketing and revenue planning on their passenger services between Japan and Malaysia. Both carriers stated that the joint business will realise “significant” consumer and economic benefits, as well as efficiencies. <br/>