British Airways owner in link-up plan with Japan Airlines

The owner of British Airways, IAG, yesterday set out plans for a joint venture with Japan Airlines (JAL), which could potentially lead to more flights and routes between Europe and Japan.

The airlines would combine their routes between Europe and Japan, boosting the frequency of daily flights for the lucrative business market.

Both are both members of the oneworld airline alliance, and Willie Walsh, chief executive of IAG, said: "We have very close links with JAL and look forward to enhancing that relationship... we have great confidence in JAL's business outlook."