This announcement was expected, but NW's traffic to/from NRT should be affected on this change.

America West (HP) recently gained approval to merge with US Airways (US) and has begun the process of transitioning into the new US Airways, a member of the Star Alliance. American West has notified Northwest Airlines of its intent to terminate the HP-NW codeshare agreement, effective March 31, 2006. Frequent flyer agreements and lounge access agreements will also be terminated. The details are as follows:

1. Codesharing
NW* codeshare flights between SFO-LAS/PHX and LAX-LAS/PHX will discontinue on March 31, 2006. Northwest will be responsible for protecting all NW* customers booked for travel on/after April 1, 2006. Customers will be rebooked on the current HP operated flight.

2. Frequent Flyer Agreement
The reciprocal NW and HP frequent flyer program agreement will terminate on March 31, 2006. The last day to earn, make reservations and ticket award travel on either airline is March 31, 2006. All travel for the award program must be completed by March 31, 2007.

3. Lounge Access Agreement
The reciprocal NW and HP lounge access agreement will terminate on March 31, 2006.