Emirates & United Airlines File Codeshared Routes to the U.S DOT

Come Fly With Us. Emirates • United Airlines. Washington Dulles International Airport, Dulles, Virginia, September 14th, 2022. Photography by J. David Buerk: www.jdavidbuerk.com www.facebook.com/DavidBuerkPhoto @DavidBuerkPhoto
James Field - Editor in Chief 5 Min Read
5 Min Read

LONDON – It has emerged that Emirates & United Airlines have filed their proposed codeshared routes to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).

Via the submission, Emirates is proposing a lot more than what United Airlines is in this codeshare.

Without further ado, let’s get into it:

Emirates: Two Pages Worth of Routes…


For Emirates’ side of the codeshare, there are a staggering two pages worth of routes they intend to place their EK code on that are operated by United Airlines.

In a logical sense, this comes as no surprise, given that Emirates wants to expand its portfolio further into the U.S. domestic network.

And as can be expected, Emirates has focused on flights being operated out of Chicago O’Hare, Houston, and San Francisco, which are strongholds for United Airlines.

If the U.S. DOT approves this side of the deal, this will be the beginning of Emirates’ expanded presence in the United States without having to use their own aircraft.

United Airlines Targets Its Unserved Markets…


Information sourced from the DOT.

As for United Airlines, the list is far smaller than Emirates’ proposed list of routes to be served, but again this isn’t that surprising.

This is because United is wanting to place its UA code on other international markets that they don’t serve, which is exactly what Emirates is doing on the domestic U.S. network.

Either way, both sides stand to benefit: Emirates on the domestic U.S. front and United on other areas of the international stage.

If the DOT approves this side of the deal as well, it is going to open up new markets for United, for which they could expand to or nearby in the future.

ICYMI: The United-Emirates Codeshare…


UAL and Emirates announcement at Dulles International Airport in Dulles, VA, September 14, 2022. Credit: Chris Kleponis

Back in September, United Airlines (UA) and Dubai-based carrier Emirates (EK) came together for a historic commercial agreement, making it possible for United (UA) customers to connect through Dubai and Emirates (EK) customers to connect to hundreds of destinations in the United States.

The historic agreement was announced at an event set up by the two airlines, hosted at Dulles International Airport (IAD), hosted by United CEO Scott Kirby and Emirates President Sir Tim Clark.

The event also featured two static display Boeing 777-300ERs, one of each airline.

CEO of United, Scott Kirby, commented on the announcement: “This agreement unites two iconic flag carrier airlines who share a common commitment to creating the best customer experience in the skies.”

“United’s new flight to Dubai and our complementary networks will make global travel easier for millions of our customers, helping boost local economies and strengthen cultural ties.”

“This is a proud moment for both United and Emirates employees, and I look forward to our journey together.”

Emirates President Sir Tim Clark said:

“Two of the biggest and best-known airlines in the world are joining hands to fly people better to more places at a time when travel demand is rebounding with a vengeance.”

“It’s a significant partnership that will unlock tremendous consumer benefit and bring the United Arab Emirates and the United States even closer.”

“We welcome United’s return to Dubai next year, where our hub Dubai essentially becomes a gateway for United to reach Asia, Africa, and the Middle East via the combined network of Emirates and flydubai.”

“We look forward to developing our partnership with United for the long term.”

Overall…


It remains clear that this particular codeshare is going to be substantial, with all eyes now on the U.S. DOT to review the application.

As mentioned, if the arrangement gets regulatory approval, then this is going to represent the beginning of a fresh strategy in the U.S. for Emirates.

Even more so for United Airlines on the international stage, which will be wanting to expand into as many global markets as possible.

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