United Airlines announces Aer Lingus cooperation

United Airlines and Aer Lingus have signed an agreement to offer codeshare flights, which would expand the international destinations and frequent flyer benefits offered to customers of both carriers.

The proposed agreement would result in more flight options for customers traveling between the United States and Ireland. The carriers also plan to give customers of United's Mileage Plus and Aer Lingus’ Gold Circle Club programs the opportunity to redeem miles to travel to new destinations and to accrue frequent flyer miles on select flights.

United CEO Glenn Tilton and Aer Lingus CEO Dermot Mannion signed the agreement in Chicago.

"We are pleased to partner with a carrier that expands our own network across the U.S. and shares our commitment to excellent service," says Dermot Mannion, Aer Lingus CEO. “We believe that this agreement will strengthen our position in the US market as we capitalize on the scale and the strength of the United Airlines network.”

The agreement between the two carriers is pending government approval and is expected to begin around November 1.

"Chicago and Ireland have a rich history, and our relationship with Aer Lingus will give our customers more non-stop destinations across the Atlantic," says Michael Whitaker, United's senior vice president – Alliances, International and Regulatory Affairs. "Partnering with the national carrier of Ireland gives customers convenient, comfortable service to the Emerald Isle and supports our strategy of international growth."

For more information, visit United.com.