United-ANA JV connects US and SE Asia
United Airlines’ new partnership with ANA, means that travellers in Thailand and neighbouring countries now have an enhanced service from Southeast Asia via Tokyo to over 220 destinations in the US.
United flies daily between Bangkok and Tokyo Narita, and from its Narita hub passengers can fly nonstop to San Francisco, Los Angeles, Seattle, Chicago, Washington DC, Houston New York and Honolulu, before connecting to more than destinations in the US.
James Mueller, vice president of Atlantic and Pacific sales at United said that this was “only the beginning for the new United.”
“With more linkages to Asia with ANA, United is seeing growth in international markets, especially Southeast Asia,” he said.
United is taking delivery of 24 aircraft this year, including five B787 Dreamliners, known for their fuel efficiency, low noise, bigger windows and advanced in-flight comfort levels. Over half a billion dollars is being spent on hundreds of new flatbed seats in business class, new Economy Plus seats, and audio visual on demand. Onboard satellite Wi-Fi connectivity will be installed throughout United’s network starting from second half of 2012.
“We’re very optimistic about the new United’s service offering between Asia and the States,” said Dave Hilfman, senior vice president for worldwide sales at United.