Air India is set to become the 20th airline to join the global Star Alliance group following a vote by other members.
”India has long been on the radar of Star Alliance ” it is one of the fastest growing economies and aviation markets,” said chairman and CEO of alliance member United Airlines, Glenn Tilton.
”Having now come to an agreement with Air India it makes us the first airline alliance to secure a member in India, which will enable our customers to receive more benefits when traveling to and within India in the future.”
Air India chairman and managing director Vasudevan Thulasidas said: ”We are delighted in being invited to join Star Alliance.
”This invitation comes in the wake of our merger with our country”s leading domestic carrier Indian Airlines, thus making Air India the prime player in the Indian subcontinent.
”In addition, the recently announced fleet expansion of more than 100 aircraft will help us serve travelers better in terms of global reach and services. And in being selected, we will add value to passengers patronizing member airlines.”
Star Alliance offers more than 17,000 daily flights to 897 destinations in 160 countries.
Members of its frequent flier programme will be able to collect and redeem air miles on Air India.
Alliance members include bmi, Lufthansa, Scandinavian Airlines, Singapore Airlines, United and US Airways.