Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) has formally joined the SkyTeam alliance, exiting its partnership with Star Alliance.
The move comes after the airline exited bankrupt proceedings, with investment from Air France-KLM Group
SAS customers will also benefit from seamless connectivity to over 1,060 destinations in SkyTeam’s extensive global network, notably opening new opportunities in regions such as Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean.
Codeshare agreements are already in place with Air France-KLM with options for codeshares with more SkyTeam members to follow later.
SAS customers will now enjoy expanded travel options, including access to numerous destinations previously unavailable to them.
Elites Matter
SAS EuroBonus Silver members will now be recognized as SkyTeam Elite, and Gold and Diamond members will enjoy the elevated status of Elite Plus, granting them enhanced services across the SkyTeam network.
EuroBonus members stand to benefit significantly. From today they can earn and redeem points across most SkyTeam airlines, while Gold and Diamond members will gain access to SkyPriority services and lounges around the world.
For passengers and elites, the airline has a transition guide at https://www.flysas.com/en/eurobonus/skyteam/
In Quotes
SkyTeam Chairman, Andres Conesa commented:
“We are happy to welcome SAS into the SkyTeam family, a customer-focused airline who shares our vision of delivering a high quality, future proof travel experience across the globe. Bringing SAS on board as a new member opens exciting new opportunities for customers. As we approach our 25th anniversary year, I am excited for the future of SkyTeam.”
Anko van der Werff, SAS President and CEO said:
“This is the beginning of a new era for SAS. Starting today, our customers will experience a smooth transition to SkyTeam, thanks to the tireless efforts of all SAS colleagues. The partnership will open new opportunities for our passengers, expand our global network, and allow us to collaborate closely with like-minded airlines. Together, we will offer even greater value to our customers while strengthening our position in the global aviation market. We’re thrilled to continue connecting the world to Scandinavia and elevate the travel experience for our passengers,”
SkyTeam CEO, Patrick Roux commented:
“At SkyTeam, our goal is to be the most integrated and seamless alliance, fostering strong collaboration that consistently delivers exceptional value to our customers, employees, and member airlines. We believe in the power of teamwork to create a smooth and cohesive travel experience. We are honored to welcome SAS as a new member, and we look forward to supporting their journey toward future success while strengthening the bonds across our global network.”
For the latest updates, please check From Star Alliance to SkyTeam (flysas.com).
Expanded Coverage
With SAS now a member, SkyTeam becomes the only airline alliance to serve both the southernmost and northernmost commercial airports in the world: Ushuaia in Argentina and Svalbard in Norway.
It added the Scandinavian hubs of Copenhagen, Stockholm, and Oslo, providing connections for travellers.
A founding member exits.
This will be a big loss for the Star Alliance network, with no drop-in replacement ready (other than Lufthansa Group filling in what it does). It will matter to Star, with one of the first founding members leaving the grouping.
It formed with United Airlines, Scandinavian Airlines, Thai Airways International, Air Canada, and Lufthansa, expanding to 25 airlines.
For now, as SAS charts its new course, with investment from Air France-KLM, it leaves part of its past behind.
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