Airline alliances continue to shape long-haul travel with better points earning, lounge access and smoother connections. Here are the key changes so far this year.
- Star Alliance added ITA Airways as its 26th member on 1 April. The Italian airline left SkyTeam after Lufthansa took a major stake. It now flies alongside United, Lufthansa and Air Canada. This move strengthens Europe coverage, particularly out of Rome and Milan, and gives travellers more seamless options on routes across the continent.
- Star Alliance marked its 29th anniversary in mid-May. The group now operates more than 17,500 flights daily to over 1,150 airports in 190 countries. It remains the largest alliance and delivers noticeable benefits on multi-carrier trips through shared hubs and coordinated schedules.
- oneworld welcomed Hawaiian Airlines on 22 April. This followed its deeper partnership with Alaska Airlines, which was already in the alliance. Hawaiian adds its extensive island network and Honolulu hub. The addition improves Pacific connections for members including Qantas, Japan Airlines and American Airlines.
- oneworld’s earlier joins of Oman Air and Fiji Airways have already lifted its presence in the Middle East and South Pacific. The alliance now offers more balanced coverage in those regions for frequent flyers.
- SkyTeam lost ITA Airways but continues to centre on core carriers like Delta, Air France-KLM and Korean Air. In late April the group opened a new flagship lounge at Frankfurt Airport Terminal 3. The facility provides a comfortable space for eligible passengers making European connections.
- The most significant change still ahead involves South Korea. Asiana Airlines plans to complete its full merger with Korean Air by December 2026. Asiana will exit Star Alliance. The combined carrier will sit within SkyTeam and strengthen the alliance’s position across Asia. Points, status and benefits will transfer once integration finishes.
These updates matter most for frequent flyers. Star Alliance Gold continues to unlock lounges and priority services across a wide network. oneworld Emerald delivers strong perks on premium routes with partners such as Qatar Airways or British Airways. SkyTeam Elite Plus works particularly well on Delta and Air France networks.
