WASHINGTON, Dec. 25 (AFP) – US carriers United and Continental along with Japan's All Nippon Airways asked for approval for a new joint trans-Pacific venture to compete against other global alliances.

The three airlines filed an application with the US Department of Transportation for antitrust immunity ''to create a more efficient and comprehensive trans-Pacific network, generating substantial service and pricing benefits for consumers.''

The three airlines said the venture would enable them to compete more effectively with other global alliances, each of which has a significant presence in Tokyo.

Approval would give them authority to jointly manage trans-Pacific activities including scheduling, pricing and sales.

''This joint venture, coupled with the recently announced open skies agreement between the US and Japan, will significantly enhance our ability to serve customers in Japan and throughout Asia and offer new choice and convenience for customers,'' said Glenn Tilton, United's chairman and chief executive.

''By making this closer cooperation between our partner airlines, we will be able to strengthen our trans-Pacific network and improve our services,'' said Shinichiro Ito, President and CEO of ANA.

US authorities granted antitrust immunity to United and Continental in July 2009, enabling the two carriers to coordinate schedules and fares for services outside the United States.

The three carriers are members of the Star alliance that allows passengers to book flights among carriers based on code-sharing arrangements.

Other alliances include oneworld, comprised of American Airlines and British Airways, among others, and SkyTeam, which includes US-based Delta and Air France.