Hong Kong Airlines 'quite cynical' of benefits of alliance for smaller airlines

Hong Kong Airlines assistant director commercial Michael Burke, speaking at the CAPA Asia Aviation Summit, said (24-Nov-2015) he is personally "quite cynical" on the benefits of alliance memberships for smaller airlines such as Hong Kong Airlines. Mr Burke explained: "I think it's diminishing returns and has been for some time… Given our size, we're always going to be last in the queue." Mr Burke noted his previous experience at Virgin Atlantic and it's partnership with Singapore Airlines, noting: "That didn't work as well as it could have… One reason may have been cultural fit. It's vital the right partner is selected." Mr Burke added: "The opportunities are extremely limited and the biggest and most powerful airlines in these alliances are doing these JVs."