News Release
Continental Airlines Receives Final DOT Approval for Japan Routes
HOUSTON, May 12, 1998 -- Continental Airlines (NYSE: CAI.B and CAI.A) announced today that it has received final approval from the U.S. Department of Transportation to begin daily nonstop service from both its Newark and Houston hubs to Tokyo, Japan. Daily 777 service from Newark will begin Nov. 30, and from Houston on December 30, subject to Japanese government approval.
Additionally, Continental was given authority to codeshare with its global alliance partner Northwest Airlines on 14 weekly frequencies between the U.S. mainland and Japan. This is in addition to the 21 beyond-Japan codeshare frequencies previously awarded to Seoul, Korea, Bangkok, Thailand, and Singapore.
Continental Micronesia was awarded five additional frequencies between Honolulu and Tokyo. These additional flights will begin in December. Continental Micronesia currently serves Honolulu-Tokyo on a daily basis. Continental Micronesia was earlier awarded the right to fly between Guam and Niigata and Okayama, Japan.
"We're delighted with the DOT's decision, which is a real victory for Continental Airlines and the communities that we serve," said Gordon Bethune, chairman and chief executive officer of Continental Airlines.