When joint flights begin next Monday, Japan Airlines Corp. customers will be able to fly between Osaka and Sydney via Brisbane on Australian budget airline Jetstar Asia Airways Ltd., sources said Wednesday.
JAL, Asia's top air carrier, withdrew from the route in March but was effectively able to resume it thanks to the joint operation.
JAL posted consolidated net losses in the 2005 and 2006 business years and is trying to expand routes by partnering with other airlines.
Jetstar is the first foreign discount airline to begin operating in Japan and attracted publicity by selling tickets for flights between Kansai International Airport in Osaka and Sydney for just 20,000 yen when it inaugurated its service in March.
Jetstar keeps airfares low by making in-flight meals optional, but customers ordering tickets through JAL can enjoy regular services, including meals and blankets.
Earlier this month, JAL said it plans to offer flights between Nagoya and Beijing jointly with China Eastern Airlines, beginning June 18.