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Shanghai Airlines and United Airlines today signed a code-share agreement that expands international destination options and frequent flyer opportunities for customers of both carriers.

Pending U.S. government approval, the 11 code-share flights covered by the agreement are scheduled to commence May 15.  Once the agreement takes effect, customers from both carriers will be able to accrue and redeem frequent flyer miles and enjoy airport lounges supported by both carriers.

"Shanghai Airlines and United Airlines have been cooperating in a number of areas for more than 10 years," said Zhou Chi, chairman of Shanghai Airlines.  "Shanghai Airlines was awarded the right to operate flights between China and the U.S. at the end of 2005 as a result of China’s liberalization of the aviation market, specifically on the China to U.S. routes.  The code-share agreement between United Airlines and Shanghai Airlines will provide passengers traveling between China and the United States with more diversified flight options, convenient connections and improved service."

"This agreement between Shanghai Airlines and United represents our strong and growing commitment to customers on both sides of the Pacific," says Glenn Tilton, United president and chief executive officer.  "We are pleased to work closely with our partners at Shanghai Airlines, to extend our route network from Shanghai to four key cities in China, while providing the traveling public of the PRC with non-stop access on United to San Francisco and Chicago, and hundreds of other destinations in the United States and worldwide."