Originally Posted by
kchika
Because CX doesn't fly to HEL and people would prefer transitting once (even at LHR) instead of twice. The fact that CX has 4 flights to London a day also helps.
Isn't AY launching 2nd-daily HKG soon?
Originally Posted by
jjpb3
What does 'too much' mean? Are you going to make the same claim for AA ex-LAX or -NYC?
Fact is, London is a major destination / hub for CX pax, so it would be foolish for CX to pretend that it doesn't have a OW partner at that hub. Unless you're suggesting that CX configure processes based on infrequent occurrences (e.g., partner labor actions)?
I'm not trying to suggest moving ALL European codeshares to other OW partners, just some destinations as an alternative and for some flexibility for pax. BA is basically the only codeshare partner of CX in inter-Europe (correct me if i'm wrong), so in case of anything happening with BA, everything goes down (apparent in this situation). Plus, T3-T5 LHR transit isn't too good if you ask me though HEL also has its problems (though it's usually "the fastest way between Asia and Europe"). AA is an exception since it's the only North American-based OW member, in Europe there are a few.
There's also a good East European network with MA, which HKG is lacking even with CX codeshares w/ BA. Fares are never lower than HK$7000.