AC, Turkish Airlines sign codeshare deal

Air Canada and Turkish Airlines have signed a reciprocal code sharing agreement that take effect at the beginning of the second quarter of 2013 and will leverage Air Canada’s planned Toronto-Istanbul route launching this summer pending receipt of government approval. Calin Rovinescu, president and Chief Executive of Air Canada, who signed a letter of intent for the agreement at ceremony during a Star Alliance chief executive meeting in Shenzhen, China this week, commented, “Air Canada is delighted by this code share agreement with our Star Alliance partner Turkish Airlines as it will ensure seamless connections on a single itinerary for our customers travelling beyond Istanbul throughout Turkey and to points in Central Asia, Africa and the Middle East. We look forward to welcoming aboard our aircraft Turkish Airlines customers who want to explore or do business in Canada through our extensive network.” Rovinescu went on to say that, “Customers on both airlines will receive the top-rated service and hospitality that is the hallmark of Star Alliance, the world’s largest airline network, including the opportunity to collect and redeem frequent flyer mileage and access to lounges for eligible customers.” Temel Kotil, Ph.D., president and CEO of Turkish Airlines, said, “We are extremely delighted to sign the code share agreement with Air Canada, as this code share partnership serves as an example of Turkish Airlines’ target to maximize the travel opportunities offered to passengers through the extensive networks of both airlines. This new code share agreement enables the customers to enjoy both the global network and the seamless service arising from the cooperation. We will have a chance to transfer our passengers to more US and Canadian domestic destinations via Toronto by connecting our networks.” Under the codeshare agreement the two carriers will each place their flight designator code on select flights making it more convenient for travellers with such benefits as a single itinerary, through-checked bags and mutual status recognition. The agreement will include Air Canada’s code on Turkish Airlines’ Toronto-Istanbul flight and several destinations beyond Istanbul, not only in Turkey but also in the Middle East and Africa region. Turkish Airlines will also code share on Air Canada’s new non-stop service between Toronto and Istanbul providing connections to domestic Canada and several points from Toronto to US destinations. Moreover, with the loyalty program, passengers will have the opportunity to earn and use miles both on Turkish Airlines and Air Canada flights. Go to http://www.aircanada.com for more.