Fresh produce suppliers are likely to benefit from the formation of a trans-Pacific joint venture between US-based Delta Air Lines and Korean Air.
The agreement aims to offer the airlines’ customers an enhanced and expanded network, industry-leading products and a “seamless” customer experience between the US and Asia.
“Together, Delta and Korean Air are building a world-class partnership that will offer more destinations, outstanding airport facilities and an unmatched customer experience on the trans-Pacific,” said Ed Bastian, Delta’s chief executive. “By combining the strengths of our two companies, we are building a stronger airline for our employees, customers and investors.”
The announcement comes after the airlines signed a memorandum of understanding outlining their intention to form the joint venture in March this year.
The agreement is the latest expansion of the longstanding partnership between Delta and Korean Air, which began in 2000 when both carriers became co-founders of the SkyTeam global airline alliance.
The joint venture will create a combined network serving more than 290 destinations in the Americas and more than 80 in Asia.
“Now is the right time for this JV. The synergies we’re creating will build stronger and more sustainable companies, and this is good for travelers, our companies and our countries,” said Korean Air chairman, Y.H. Cho.
In anticipation of the joint venture, Delta recently launched new nonstop service between Atlanta and Seoul. Korean Air will continue to expand its US – Korea network in summer 2017 with the introduction of a third roundtrip flight between Los Angeles and Seoul, as well as a second flight between San Francisco and Seoul.
