Member ceos set to approve membership
Belgian Carrier Brussels Airlines is set to be the next member of Star Alliance, with only the approval of the other member ceos pending.
The airline will improve Star Alliance routes to Africa, with a fleet of 45 aircraft serving 15 destinations on the continent, as well as 55 European airports.
Glenn Tilton, chairman, president and ceo of United, who chaired the meeting, said: "Brussels Airlines further strengthens the Star Alliance by offering greater connectivity throughout Europe and Africa."
Bernard Gustin, managing director of Brussels Airlines, added: "We are very happy with this invitation from Star Alliance and we look forward to becoming a member carrier. Together we will be able to bring all the advantages of Star Alliance to our customers, both at the heart of Europe where we have our state-of-the-art hub, and to Africa, our second home."
This is a logical move as Lufthansa, a founding member of Star Alliance, recently purchased a 45% share in Brussels Airlines.
Lufthansa also takes the role of sponsor for the Belgian carrier while it integrates into the alliance.
Wolfgang Mayrhuber, Lufthansa's chairman and ceo, said: "The leading Belgian carrier will significantly increase the presence of Star Alliance at Brussels Airport and will offer the easiest access to a couple of African destinations new to the network."
For members of Privilege, Brussels Airlines' loyalty programme, there will be more opportunity for rewards as members will be able to earn points with any Star Alliance airline.
Likewise, loyalty programme members of the other Star Alliance airlines will be able to earn points on routes with Brussels Airlines.
Brazilian airline TAM announced it would be joining the alliance earlier this year, while Air India and Continental are currently members-elect.
www.brusselsairlines.com www.staralliance.com