AA Calls Off Codeshare Deals with Qatar Airways, Etihad

American Airlines has announced it will terminate codeshare partnerships with Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways.

The move is seen as part of a dispute over state subsidies American claims these carriers receive from their governments. Both the Middle Eastern carriers deny such claims.

American and other United States-based carrier, notably Delta Air Lines and United Airlines, argue government subsidies allow Qatar Airways, Etihad and Emirates to offer lower fares and more amenities to long-haul, international travelers.

American said cancelling code-sharing agreements with Qatar Airways and Etihad would not have a material financial impact.

The decision comes as Qatar Airways confirmed it would go ahead with plans to buy a stake in American Airlines.

The Middle Eastern carrier – which holds ten percent of LATAM and a 20 percent stake in British Airways-owner IAG - is seeking a ten percent stake in its rival.

“Our stock purchase request and filing is going ahead as normal,” Qatar Airways chief executive Akbar al-Baker said.

Qatar Airways sent a revised antitrust filing to US regulators earlier seeking clearance to buy up to a ten percent stake in American.

Qatar Airways, American Airlines, British Airways, Iberia and LATAM are all members of the one world airline alliance.