Virgin Atlantic has confirmed its interest in pursuing closer co-operation with SkyTeam members Air France-KLM and Alitalia. Delta Air Lines, which operates a transatlantic joint venture with the three European airlines, took a 49% stake in Virgin Atlantic earlier this year.
Julie Southern, Virgin’s Chief Commercial Officer, told the Daily Telegraph: “We are very interested in exploring what further co-operation opportunities there are, particularly with Air France-KLM and Alitalia.” However, she added that “no detailed discussions” have taken place yet, with talks due to take place in the “coming months”.
Such a deal could open up more flights for Virgin to Asia, the Middle East and Africa. Jean-Cyril Spinetta, Air France-KLM’s Chief Executive, said that the group may consider a joint venture with Virgin on Asian and African routes.
