Cathay Pacific signs code-share agreement with Alaska Airlines

Partnership expands Hong Kong carrier's reach in North America and increases overall passenger volume.

Cathay Pacific Airways on Wednesday announced a new code-share agreement with Alaska Airlines that will further boost connections between North America, Hong Kong and the rest of Asia. Bookings for the new code-share services will begin 29 September for travel starting 7 October 2010, according to a Cathay Pacific report.

Under the agreement, Cathay Pacific’s “CX” code will go on Alaska Airlines flights between the cities of Seattle and Portland and three of Cathay Pacific’s North American gateway cities - Los Angeles, San Francisco and Vancouver.

Cathay Pacific Chief Executive Tony Tyler said: “The cooperation with a quality US carrier such as Alaska Airlines will further expand Cathay Pacific’s reach in the North American market, offering wider choice and greater convenience for our passengers. At the same time, the increased passenger traffic that will be generated by this new partnership will help to strengthen further Hong Kong's position as one of the world’s leading aviation hubs.”

Alaska Airlines President Brad Tilden said: “Cathay Pacific’s international customers will enjoy easy connections, streamlined handling of checked baggage and more travel options to some of the Pacific Northwest’s most popular destinations including Seattle and Portland. We welcome Cathay Pacific’s customers to experience the award-winning customer service of Alaska Airlines and our sister airline Horizon Air on their next US-bound flight.”

Cathay Pacific is committed to strengthening its network in order to provide greater connectivity for passengers through the Hong Kong hub. The airline recently launched two new routes to Milan and Moscow, expanded its code-share arrangement with Japan Airlines, and will enhance a number of key services for the winter.