AI entry into Star Alliance on track

The Star Alliance airline network has said the process of bringing Air India within its fold is on track. “We have agreed on a joint implementation plan and it is working well,” Star Alliance Vice-President (corporate office) Christian Klick said on Thursday. Star Alliance is a 28-member airline group that includes Lufthansa, Air Canada, United, Singapore Airlines, etc, among its members and offers customers seamless connections and an opportunity to ‘earn-and-burn’ miles through integrated frequent-flyer programmes. The alliance is the largest of the three global airline alliances.

Joining the Star Alliance will create more revenue options for Air India and its customers will enjoy a wider network. The grouping has faced a challenge from Gulf carriers Emirates and Etihad, which aren’t its members. Qatar Airways, the third major Gulf carrier, has joined the British Airways led-Oneworld alliance. In 2011, Air India’s entry into Star Alliance was suspended. However, in December 2013, the integration process was renewed, owing to an improvement in the airline’s performance. Klick didn’t disclose when the alliance board would finalise Air India’s integration.