Global airline alliance will move headquarters from New York to Fort Worth
The Oneworld airline alliance is moving its global headquarters from New York to Fort Worth.
The alliance announced Wednesday that it would join its founding company, American Airlines, at its 300-acre campus near DFW Airport.
Oneworld is one of three global major airline alliances that allows international airlines to partner with one another. Through alliances, customers can book tickets across companies, redeem miles and earn other travel rewards.
It is unclear how many jobs the move will bring to Fort Worth. Local governments did not provide any economic development incentives for the move, according the the economic development department for the City of Fort Worth.
“We are thrilled to welcome Oneworld Alliance to Fort Worth. This is a great testament to the strength of the aviation industry in our community,” said Brandom Gengelbach, president and CEO of the Fort Worth Chamber. “We’re grateful for American Airlines’ continued investment in Fort Worth and Tarrant County. We look forward to additional opportunities to showcase Fort Worth and the metroplex as a leader in the airline industry.”
“The relocation of Oneworld to Fort Worth is exciting,” said Robert Sturns, director of economic development for the City of Fort Worth. “It strengthens our city’s deep ties to the aviation industry, and builds on the opportunity, connectivity and outstanding success of American Airlines and other Oneworld carriers at DFW Airport.”
The alliance will move its headquarters in December. DFW Airport is one of the fastest growing hubs in the Oneworld network, according to American Airlines. The airport offers 900 daily flights to more than 260 destinations and serves seven of airlines that comprise the Oneworld alliance.
“It’s go time in Fort Worth, and we’re focusing on growing jobs and creating opportunities for everyone,” said Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker in a release. “Oneworld will be a wonderful addition to Fort Worth. The robust air service that American and other Oneworld carriers provide connects our region to the world, and that connectivity is part of what makes Fort Worth such an attractive place for businesses to invest and grow.”
“Co-locating with founding member American Airlines, the largest airline in the world, will further accelerate the alliance’s drive to deliver greater value for its member airlines and customers,” American Airlines said in a release.
Oneworld’s cited Texas’ No. 1 national ranking for air transportation jobs as a factor in its relocation.
In addition to American Airlines, the alliance includes Alaska Airlines, British Airways, Japan Airlines, Qatar Airways, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Malaysia Airlines, Qantas, Royal Air Maroc, SriLankan Airlines, Royal Jordanian, Iberia, and Fiji Airways as a Oneworld Connect partner.