Continental Airlines and China Southern Airlines have entered into a strategic partnership for frequent flyer and airport lounge access reciprocity and extensive codesharing.

"As we look to build upon our successful service to China, we are honored to partner with China Southern. Our customers will appreciate the benefits of this new agreement," said Larry Kellner, chairman and chief executive officer of Continental Airlines. "China Southern is the right partner for us in China and we look forward to welcoming them into the SkyTeam alliance in the very near future."

Beginning in September, members of the two airlines' frequent flyer programs, Continental's OnePass and China Southern's Sky Pearl Club, will be able to earn and redeem miles on all flights marketed and operated by the other carrier. Reciprocal airport lounge access for eligible customers will also begin when China Southern joins SkyTeam.

In November, the carriers plan to begin codesharing. Continental will place its code (CO) on China Southern flights connecting to Continental's daily flight between New York and Beijing and on China Southern's flights between Guangzhou and Los Angeles. At the same time, China Southern will place its code (CZ) on Continental flights connecting with China Southern at Los Angeles.

"As an industry leader, Continental Airlines' cooperation with China Southern will significantly increase China Southern's market share on cross-Pacific and the U.S. domestic market," said China Southern Chairman Liu Shao Yong.

Continental and China Southern customers traveling on connecting itineraries will be able to have single check-in for all flights, including the issuance of electronic tickets, boarding passes and checked baggage to their final destination.

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