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The Big 3

Updated: Sep 7, 2019


I was originally introduced to airline alliances as a way to maximize airline miles back in 2015. Originally constructed as an agreement between two airlines, has expanded into so much more. Three major alliances now exist, that shortens the connection between continents and bring easy access to the world.


Although it creates a loss of competition amongst airlines, the parks are far greater than the risk. There's a benefit to the airlines, such as reduced cost and an integrated booking system. Passengers are rewarded with lower fares and shorter waiting times. Airline miles are accumulated at a better efficiency and round the world (RTW) tickets are easier to book.

There are three major alliances: The Star Alliance, The Oneworld, and the Skyteam.



Air New Zealand: A Star Alliance member
Air New Zealand: A Star Alliance member


The Star Alliance started in 1997 by five airlines: Air Canada, Lufthansa, Scandinavian Airlines, Thai Airways International and United Airlines. With the aim of efficiency and connecting every major city in the world, this alliance was the first in operation. The alliance now consists of 28 member airlines, 27 airlines, and 1 connection partner.


All Star Alliance Members:


Adria Airways

Aegean Airlines

Air Canada

Air China

Air India

Air New Zealand

All Nippon Airways

Asiana Airlines

Austrian Airlines

Avianca

Brussels Airlines

Copa Airlines

Croatia Airlines

EgyptAir

Ethiopian Airlines

EVA Air

JuneYao Airlines (Connection partner)

LOT Polish Airlines

Lufthansa

Scandinavian Airlines

Shenzhen Airlines

Singapore Airlines

South African Airlines

Swiss International Airlines

TAP Portugal

Thai Airways

Turkish Airlines

United Airlines



American Airlines: Oneworld Partner
American Airlines: Oneworld Partner


Oneworld was created by American Airlines, British Airlines, and Quantas. This was the second alliance to be formed in 1999. They were quickly joined by Finnair and Iberia. The Oneworld targets more of a business clientele with strategic locations around the world.


Oneworld Members:


American Airlines

British Airways

Cathay Pacific

Finnair

Iberia

Japan Airlines

Latam

Malaysia Airlines

Quantas

Qatar

Royal Jordanian

S7 Airlines

SriLankan Airlines


Delta Airlines: Skyteam Partner
Delta Airlines: Skyteam Partner


Skyteam was created in 2000 by Aeromexico, Air France, Delta Airlines and Korean Air. Although being the youngest of the alliances, it has surpassed the Oneworld with the number of member airlines and its also my favorite alliance. (Yes, I’m a medallion member #medallionlife) I look forward to using their connections to plan an around the world trip.


Skyteam Members:


Aeroflot

Aerolineas Argentinas

Aeromexico

AirEuropa

Air France

Alitalia

China Airlines

China Eastern

China Southern

Czech Airlines

Delta

Garuda Indonesia

Kenya Airways

KLM

Korean Air

Middle East Airlines

Saudia

TAROM

Vietnam Airlines

Xiamen Airlines



Editors Note: Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any parties mentioned. None of the entities mentioned has reviewed, approved or endorsed the content listed in this post.

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