Air Canada and Emirates have announced a codeshare agreement, set to take place later this year, that will offer enhanced consumer travel choices and conveniences for customers of both airlines travelling between Canada and the United Arab Emirates.

The strategic partnership also offers options for Air Canada customers travelling beyond Emirates’ base in Dubai, while passengers coming from the UAE can connect to Air Canada’s extensive network across the country through Toronto, all on one ticket and with through baggage to final destinations.

Air Canada president and CEO Michael Rousseau, says the codeshare furthers the airline’s strategy of expanding its global reach in response to growing opportunities in VFR markets (Visiting Friends and Relatives) that serve Canada’s large multicultural communities, adding, “We look forward to introducing Air Canada codeshare service on key Emirates flights, as well as adding the EK code on select Air Canada flights, and welcoming Emirates customers on our services later this year.”

Tim Clark, President, Emirates Airline said, “This is a significant partnership that will enable our customers access to even more destinations in Canada and the Americas, via our Toronto and US gateways. It also opens up many new route combinations for travellers across Emirates’ and Air Canada’s extensive networks in the Americas, the Middle East, Africa and Asia.”

To further enhance the customer experience, the carriers will also establish reciprocal frequent flyer benefits and reciprocal lounge access for qualifying customers.

Further details of the partnership and specific codeshare routes will be announced when finalized and will be subject to regulatory approvals and final documentation.