Qatar Airways has announced the start date of the link-up of its Qmiles programme with BA's Avios programme.
On its Privilege Club website, the Gulf carrier states "Qatar Airways partners with British Airways" from September 2.
It was previously announced that Qatar will officially join the Oneworld alliance in October, and even that was earlier than expected (see news, June 21).
Qatar's announcement reads: "Effective September 2, 2013 Qatar Airways and British Airways have entered into a reciprocal frequent flyer agreement, wherein our Privilege Club member will now have the opportunity to earn Qmiles on all flights operated by British Airways.
"Moreover, effective October 1, 2013 Privilege Club members will also be able to redeem their Qmiles to avail of Award tickets on all British Airways flights.
"For complete information on the Mileage Earning opportunity please click here and to redeem your Qmiles for Awards tickets on our Partner Airlines please click here."
Business Traveller asked BA for a comment and a spokesman confirmed the move.
He said: "From September 2, members of the British Airways Executive Club will be able to earn Avios points when flying on Qatar Airways.
"Qatar Airways is joining the Oneworld alliance later this year, and the two airlines are cementing their partnership with this reciprocal frequent flyer arrangement."
Note that tier points will only be able to be earned when Qatar Airways joins Oneworld. No date has been given for this, but it is believed to be October.
qatarairways.com, oneworld.com
Tom Otley