The airlines announced an “innovative†plan last January that would see Aer Lingus operate flights from Madrid to the US beginning in March on behalf of United, but using Aer Lingus planes. Aer Lingus said recently that it will cut a sixth of its workforce and is reviewing its remaining long haul operation as part of a broader restructuring to stem losses.
United, a unit of UAL Corp. said the move did not affect the planned joint venture. “There is no change to our relationship with Aer Lingus,†a United spokeswoman said.
United and Aer Lingus said they plan to work together to share revenue and costs, in a partnership that could be closer than a typical airline alliance, which they already have.