VIRGIN ATLANTIC ANNOUNCES CODE-SHARING AGREEMENT WITH CYRPUS AIRWAYS

Virgin Atlantic and Cyprus Airways have signed a code sharing agreement offering simpler travel and greater choice on routings between the UK, the US and Cyprus for both carriers’ passengers.

Under the agreement, travellers will be able to purchase single itineraries to connect with ease between Cypriot gateway Larnaca and a variety of Virgin Atlantic’s US destinations on routes which currently see high levels of demand.

The codesharing will provide new travel options to customers of both airlines and will allow a streamlined journey across these routes, with passengers being afforded the convenience of one-stop ticketing and baggage check-in whether their travel originates in the US or Cyprus.

George Mavrocostas, Executive Chairman for Cyprus Airways said:
“We are confident that the Cyprus traveling public will actively welcome this partnership, as it will be opening up the North Atlantic market on Cyprus’ flag carrier code in cooperation with Virgin Atlantic, jointly providing the care and comfort that both carriers offer on their flights. “

Edmond Rose, Director of Commercial and Revenue Planning for Virgin Atlantic said:
“It’s a pleasure to be working closely with Cyprus Airways to offer new codeshare flights between major cities in the United States and Larnaca. The codeshare will make buying tickets and travelling between the US and Cyprus simpler for Virgin Atlantic’s and Cyprus Airways’ passengers.”

The initial agreement will see Cyprus Airways put their code on Virgin Atlantic flights operating between London Heathrow and Boston, Los Angeles, New York JFK and Newark, while Virgin Atlantic will code share on Cyprus Airways services between Larnaca and London Heathrow.

The airlines itineraries to these destinations complement each other perfectly and will allow passengers a seamless transfer experience between Larnaca and the US.

The two carriers expect the code share to come into force on 25 July 2011 after obtaining the relevant government approvals.