Delta Air Lines is expanding its partnership with Air France-KLM, the carrier announced this week.

Delta is deepening its ties with a $440 million USD investment to acquire a 10 percent equity in Air France-KLM.

The carrier also announced that Delta, Air France-KLM and Virgin Atlantic would be launching a combined long-term joint venture, supported by a 31 percent investment by Air France-KLM in Virgin Atlantic.

“A dynamic global landscape means it’s more important than ever for Delta to deepen ties with our global partners to provide opportunities for mutual growth,” said Delta CEO Ed Bastian. “Bringing together the strengths of Delta, Air France-KLM and Virgin Atlantic into a combined joint venture will create the trans-Atlantic partnership of choice for customers.”

The expanded joint venture, which includes Alitalia, will offer more than 300 daily nonstop trans-Atlantic flights.

“During the past decade, Delta’s global partnerships have fueled significant international growth,” said Steve Sear, President – International & EVP – Global Sales. “As we further develop these partnerships, our ability to align network, sales and other commercial and operational initiatives will provide even greater benefits for our customers and employees.”

Delta has had a joint venture with Air France-KLM since 2009, before adding Alitalia in 2010.

— CJ Staff