It now seems that the United States Department of Transportation has considered antitrust immunity for two aviation alliances offering services to Japan. Immunity, which remains subject to the signing of an open-skies agreement between the two countries, would allow Oneworld alliance members, American Airlines and Japan Airlines, to closely coordinate operations in trans-Pacific markets.

On a separate note, Star Alliance members United Airlines, Continental Airlines and All Nippon Airways would also benefit from this deal. The proposals will require the support of the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism as well. Once this agreement gets accepted, Washington officials will move to finalize an existing open-skies pact drawn up in December of 2009 to liberalize commercial aviation between the United States and Japan.

The executive officer of international affairs at Japan Airlines, said that they appreciate that the Department of Transportation recognizes the value in their application. He went on to say that these new opportunities, afforded by developments in the aviation landscape in Japan, will allow them to optimize flight schedules and pricing, enhance operations efficiency and ultimately benefit customers.

Japan Airlines is presently undergoing a state-backed restructuring plan after declaring bankruptcy earlier this year. Back in August, the airline announced details of a rehabilitation plan that will see thousands of job cuts, as well as route closures.

American Airlines’ senior vice president of government affairs said that an immunized joint business will benefit the American and Japanese economies. It will promote increased cultural exchange and provide more travel choices and greater access to discounted fares for millions of consumers.