Cathay Pacific (CX) has announced a new codeshare agreement with the Flybe Group that will see the Hong Kong-based carrier connect passengers travelling from its home base to seven destinations in the United Kingdom via Manchester.
As previously reported by Business Traveller Asia-Pacific (see here), CX is planning to launch a four-times weekly direct service to Manchester later this month.
The new agreement with Flybe will facilitate convenient connections for passengers travelling within the UK, and help establish the airline’s Manchester flights as an attractive alternative to London Heathrow.
As part of the codeshare agreement, Cathay will add its “CX” code on selected Flybe domestic flights between Manchester International Airport and Aberdeen, Belfast, Edinburgh, Exeter, Inverness, the Isle of Man and Southampton.
Tickets are now available for purchase, and will be valid for travel commencing from December 11, 2014.
It should be noted that Flybe has just replaced its Rewards4All frequent flyer programme for Avios, part of IAG – the parent company of oneworld member British Airways. Speaking to Business Traveller Asia-Pacific, CX has confirmed that customers travelling on the codeshare flights will be able to enjoy mileage accrual and redemption opportunities.
"Passengers who made reservation and travel on CX/Flybe codeshare flights under CX designator will earn Club miles/sectors and Asia Miles if they book with eligible fare class," said the airline. "As with current practice, members of The Marco Polo Club and Asia Miles may redeem air tickets on flights operated by Cathay Pacific and other oneworld member airlines".
"This new agreement comes at the perfect time as we will be launching a four-times-weekly service between Hong Kong and Manchester on 8 December. The code-share flights with Flybe will provide our passengers with greater choice and ease of connection to different cities within the UK from Hong Kong via Manchester," said CX chief operating officer Rupert Hogg.
For more information, visit cathaypacific.com
Clement Huang