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Star Alliance enhances intermodal connectivity with Austria’s ÖBB
Picture Credit: ÖBB/Daniel Willinger Star Alliance, together with 25 member airlines, welcomed ÖBB as its newest intermodal partner. This partnership allows customers of ÖBB and Star Alliance member airlines to seamlessly begin or conclude their long-distance journey on ÖBB's eco-friendly Railjet trains, connecting from or to Graz, Linz, Salzburg, and Innsbruck. Peter Hanke, Federal Minister for Innovation, Mobility and Infrastructure said: "Cooperation between various providers is crucial if we want to overcome the current challenges in the area of mobility. The partnership between ÖBB, Austrian Airlines, and Star Alliance perfectly symbolises my understanding of a minister's role as a bridge-builder between the various mobility options. Infrastructure is the foundation for a functioning location, but also for domestic economy, tourism, and society." Delighted at the expansion, Star Alliance Chief Executive Officer Theo Panagiotoulias stated: "Air and Rail have complemented each other as transport modes for several years around the world, and we are proud to welcome ÖBB, the Austrian Federal Railways, to the Star Alliance family. With a single ticket, customers can now reach from Singapore to Salzburg, switching from a flight to Railjet at the Vienna airport. I am confident that not only will this partnership offer more choice, but it will also enhance the seamlessness in customer journeys." Andreas Matthä, CEO of ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) said: "Traveling from the main train stations in Linz, Salzburg, Graz, or Innsbruck to destinations around the world will soon be even easier. We are very pleased to take a significant step in cooperation with Star Alliance to improve the integration of rail and air travel. This initiative allows us to offer our passengers an environmentally friendly way to travel to and from Vienna Airport - completely car-free - making the overall journey even more comfortable. This will make train journeys an even more flexible and seamless part of air travel - not just with one airline group, but across a global network of 25 airlines." The partnership is founded on ÖBB and Austrian Airlines' long-standing cooperation to offer rail-to-air connectivity, known as AIRail, which was launched in 2014. It has allowed passengers to travel conveniently between major Austrian cities and Vienna Airport by train, with integrated ticketing and check-in services. Introduced in August 2022 with Germany's Deutsche Bahn, the Star Alliance Intermodal Partnership model makes it possible to intelligently combine alliance-wide airline network with railway, bus, ferry or any other transport ecosystem. It further links loyalty systems and facilitates seamless airport/station/port transit. Benefits to customers include: More booking convenience: In a single booking process, customers will receive a combined ticket for the flight and train journeys including seat reservation. More check-in convenience: Customers can check in online or at one of the ÖBB Travel Centers in Graz, Linz, Salzburg and Innsbruck and receive boarding passes for both flight and train journeys. More choice: Customers will have even more choice based on timings, duration and prices offered. More benefits: With a combined ticket, customers can earn points or miles for their train journey in the preferred frequent flyer program of a Star Alliance member airline. March 2025 also marks Austrian Airlines' 25 years of Star Alliance membership. At present, 16 Star Alliance member airlines operate at Vienna airport offering over 1300 weekly flights to 135 destinations.
ITA Airways set to start integration into Star Alliance
ITA Airways has officially received approval to start the integration process into Star Alliance following a verdict by the Star Alliance Chief Executive Board (CEB). Building on its induction into the Lufthansa Group earlier this year, this decision paves the way for its much anticipated entry into the world’s largest airline alliance. The onboarding process will now move at full throttle. Celebrating the milestone, Star Alliance Chief Executive Officer Theo Panagiotoulias stated: “In early 2026, ITA Airways is expected to officially join the Star Alliance network as a full member. The decision by our Chief Executive Board underscores the strong confidence our members have in ITA Airways. As a gateway for Italy, its addition strengthens our global network, offering seamless and connected journeys to more travellers worldwide.” Joerg Eberhart, CEO and General Manager of ITA Airways, said: “We are excited to join the Star Alliance network and to bring the excellence of Made in Italy into the alliance, further enhancing its global reach. This is a significant milestone in ITA Airways’ growth, and we look forward to offering our customers the future privileges of the world’s largest airline network." ITA Airways will add 360 daily flights to the Alliance network, further strengthening the Alliance’s footprint in the European region. The biggest growth will come from its home cities, especially Rome and Milan, which are currently served by 16 Star Alliance members collectively. Leveraging their legacy within the Alliance, Lufthansa Group is mentoring ITA Airways through its integration journey into Star Alliance. “I am proud that ITA Airways will become the fifth hub airline of the Lufthansa Group to join Star Alliance. As the mentor of the membership process, we will do our utmost to ensure a smooth and swift integration. ITA Airways’ future membership will provide Star Alliance customers with many new opportunities for personalised travel planning. I am confident that ITA Airways will be an excellent addition to the Star Alliance portfolio,” said Dieter Vranckx, Chief Commercial Officer of the Lufthansa Group. Upon completing induction, the Star Alliance network will grow to 26 member airlines, offering over 18,000 daily flights connecting 192 countries.
Star Alliance Chief Executive Board elects Michael Rousseau as new chairperson
Michael Rousseau, President and CEO of Air Canada, has been elected as the new Chairperson of the Star Alliance Chief Executive Board (CEB). He succeeds Scott Kirby, CEO of United, who held the post since December 2020. Assuming the role as the Chairperson, Rousseau said: “I am looking forward to working with the board over the next two years to continue our progressive work in delivering a seamless customer experience. At Star Alliance, we are committed to the vision of an effortlessly connected world, and I invite every member of our Alliance to join me in making this vision a reality in 2025 and beyond.” In his new role as CEB Chairperson of the largest airline alliance in the world, Mr. Rousseau will lead the two annual board meetings and serve as the spokesperson for the board, guiding the strategic direction of the Alliance, which consists of 25 global member airlines. Congratulating Rousseau on the appointment, Star Alliance CEO Theo Panagiotoulias said: “I am delighted to welcome Michael Rousseau, one of the most seasoned CEOs on the board, as the new Chairperson and look forward to working closely with him as we bring the renewed vision of the Alliance to fruition. I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to Scott Kirby for his guidance and support to Star Alliance during his successful four-year term.” Each of the 25 member airlines is represented by its CEO on the CEB, which serves as the Alliance's governing body and sets the overarching strategic direction. With transformation underway across all facets of the business and India’s rich legacy of hospitality, Air India is committed to being a world class global airline with an Indian heart.
Star Alliance remains world’s leading airline alliance
Star Alliance took the title of World's Leading Airline Alliance for the fifth year in a row at this year's World Travel Awards. The event was held in Madeira, Portugal on Sunday, 24th November. Theo Pangiotoulias, chief executive for the alliance, said of this most recent honour: "This enduring achievement reflects the collective dedication of Star Alliance and member airline employees, as well as their commitment to deliver seamless travel experiences." Aside from the alliance-level award, Star Alliance member airlines claimed individual honours at the event. These airlines were hailed as World's Leading Airline in the Africa, Asia, North America, and South America categories.
Star Alliance unveils its first lounge in Asia at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, China
Star Alliance, the world’s largest airline alliance, has opened its first lounge in Asia at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) in Guangzhou, China. The lounge will be available to First and Business class passengers, and Star Alliance Gold status customers on member airline flights departing from Terminal 1. The new Star Alliance branded lounge is located in a dedicated space on the upper level of the existing GBIA lounge in the Terminal 1 international area, offering exclusive access to Star Alliance member airline guests. The Star Alliance area provides a comfortable environment for travellers as they relax or work before their flight. Ideally situated close to the departure gates for Star Alliance member airlines, the lounge features an open layout and offers 750 square meters of space which can accommodate up to 100 guests. Open around the clock, it welcomes travellers with varying flight schedules. “Lounges are a critical component for the effortless travel experience we aim to provide to our member airline passengers,” said Star Alliance CEO Theo Panagiotoulias. “As a key strategic hub in Asia, Guangzhou serves as an important gateway for our guests. We are excited to inaugurate our first lounge in Asia, given the significance of the continent to aviation growth today and in the years to come.” Ambar Franco, Star Alliance’s Vice President for Customer Experience, added: “Our first Star Alliance branded lounge in Asia is an exciting milestone for us. Thoughtfully designed with the modern traveller in mind, it offers an effortless blend of comfort and functionality. Conveniently located close to departure gates, this lounge also provides travellers with the flexibility to relax, work, or refresh before their flight, all while enjoying a wide range of refreshment options and services tailored to their needs.” The lounge features a glass facade offering tarmac views, filling the space with natural light. It also includes practical amenities, such as workstations and comfortable seating areas for both relaxation and productivity. Tucked in a quiet space, the VIP room is a 100 square meters private area ideal for group or private business meetings, available upon request. Guests are also welcome to use the state of the art shower suites to refresh themselves before their onward journey. The Star Alliance branded lounge offers a sense of connection to Guangzhou and the Pearl Delta River region. In addition to being adorned with art pieces by local artists, the lounge also has an exclusive Tea Appreciation Corner that will be available on special occasions, where guests can experience the region’s renowned tea culture. Guests can also enjoy a range of food options, with light bites and regional delights featuring local cuisine served throughout the day. There is also a dedicated bar counter where travellers can enjoy drinks that have been specially curated for the lounge. Qi Yaoming, Deputy General Manager of Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, said, "The fact that Star Alliance has chosen to open its first branded lounge in Asia at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is not only a sign of trust and support for us, but also an acknowledgment of the status of Baiyun Airport as an important international hub. Baiyun Airport will continue to uphold the service concept of 'Customer First' and continuously build itself into an airline-friendly airport to provide even better service guarantees for Star Alliance and its member airlines." The Star Alliance branded lounge was created by Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport in cooperation with member airlines. Operated by Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport Business Travel Service Co., Ltd, the new lounge is set to play a key role in enhancing the airport’s support services and improving the travel experience for international passengers. Given Guangzhou’s growing importance as a major travel hub in Asia, Star Alliance will open a new branded lounge in the upcoming Terminal 3 of Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. At present, 10 Star Alliance member airlines operate from Guangzhou, including Air China, ANA, Asiana Airlines, EGYPTAIR, Ethiopian Airlines, EVA Air, Shenzhen Airlines, Singapore Airlines, THAI, and Turkish Airlines, offering 774 weekly departures to 50 destinations in 10 countries.
Star Alliance reinforces key management appointments
Global airline alliance Star Alliance recently firmed up its key management appointments aimed at further enhancing its strategic focus on a seamless experience for member airline customers as they benefit from the Star Alliance network. Star Alliance chief executive Theo Panagiotoulias said of these appointments: "I am delighted to work with such a diverse leadership team. They bring their extensive experience from within and outside the aviation industry to fast-track our mission of delivering a seamless customer experience at key touch points in their travels." He added that these new appointees are passionate about Star Alliance's vision and executing on it, always with member airlines’ end-customer in mind. Meet the team Ambar Franco joins Star Alliance as vice-president for customer experience. Franco will lead the development and implementation of initiatives designed to enhance the overall customer journey across the alliance: their booking experience, the experience of customers at airports and when they connect between Star Alliance member airlines, and then to ensure their continuing loyalty post travel. She brings significant expertise from the travel industry, most recently having held senior customer experience related roles at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group. Luc Lachoix is Star Alliance’s vice-president for digital and technology. Lachoix is responsible for IT architecture, operations, and security, as well as supporting the IT needs of Star Alliance’s Customer Experience and Loyalty business areas. He has served in various roles in the airline industry, including leadership positions at key travel technology companies including Amadeus and Sabre. Renato Ramos is the new vice-president for strategy. Ramos drives Star Alliance's strategic initiatives, business planning, and cross-functional collaboration. Engaged at Star Alliance for the last seven years, he previously served as Director, Loyalty at Star Alliance. Ramos is a seasoned aviation expert who has held previous roles at Avianca and LATAM Airlines. Gayatheri Silvakumer was appointed vice-president for people and culture. In this capacity, she leads the implementation of Star Alliance’s human capital and cultural development vision, focusing on talent retention and organisational development. She has held several senior HR roles across various industries, working with organisations such as McCann Worldgroup, Bombardier, and Rolls-Royce.
Star Alliance Los Angeles Lounge named North America’s Leading Airport Lounge at the World Travel Awards 2024
Star Alliance’s Los Angeles airport lounge has been honoured with the title of North America's Leading Airport Lounge for the fifth year running at this year's prestigious World Travel Awards. The award was announced at the Caribbean & The Americas Gala Ceremony held on the scenic island of Saint Vincent on July 1, 2024. Star Alliance CEO Theo Panagiotoulias commented on the victory, saying: "Our aim at Star Alliance is to make air travel more effortless and stress-free. Lounges are essential for improving the airport experience, and our Star Alliance LAX lounge has been a standout since its inception. We are excited that it has been recognised as one of the top in the industry consistently." Panagiotoulias acknowledged the team and continued: "I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to the hardworking team that ensures our LAX lounge operates flawlessly around the clock. Additionally, I thank our Star Alliance member airlines for their ongoing partnership, which has contributed to the lounge's success over the years." The Star Alliance lounge at Los Angeles International Airport is renowned as one of the finest airport lounges globally, consistently earning prestigious industry accolades. Featuring an outdoor terrace with firepits, a water wall, and panoramic views of the Hollywood Hills, the sprawling 18,000-square-foot lounge captures the essence of Californian charm through the day and transforms into a lively space as night descends. For those seeking a calm pre-flight experience or a space to work and dine, the lounge provides ample opportunities to unwind and enjoy. The World Travel Awards celebrate and recognise excellence across key sectors of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries. Established in 1993, it is one of the most prestigious award programmes in travel and tourism.
Star Alliance named the World’s Best Airline Alliance
Star Alliance has been honoured with the title of World’s Best Airline Alliance once again at this year's prestigious Skytrax World Airline Awards. The Alliance’s newly launched Paris Charles de Gaulle airport lounge has also won the World’s Best Airline Alliance Lounge title in its first year. Star Alliance CEO Theo Panagiotoulias received the awards at a ceremony held at the iconic Fairmont Windsor Park, UK. Celebrating the occasion, Mr Panagiotoulias said: “We are humbled to learn that millions of customers voted and made us the best yet again. Not only does this acknowledge the effort we dedicate to making customer journeys seamless, but it also motivates us further to achieve more.” Panagiotoulias also congratulated thousands of member airline employees across the network and continued: “The commitment and effort of every employee at Star Alliance and member airlines throughout a promising 2023 have culminated in this award. I proudly accept this honour on their behalf and commend them for their dedication. I encourage them to keep aiming for excellence this year and in the future.” Star Alliance, the world's first and largest airline alliance, represents a globally recognised brand committed to providing a seamless experience for its collective customer base. Dedicated to delivering a smoother journey, Star Alliance and its member airlines offer the widest network in the sky, along with benefits such as loyalty reciprocation, efficient baggage tracking, exclusive lounge access, and expedited gold track security clearance, among other perks. The Star Alliance lounge at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport opened its doors in October 2023 and quickly became a favourite among frequent flyers. This expansive 1,300 square meter facility is conveniently located in Terminal 1, offering exceptional runway views, a beautifully designed welcome bar, and an immersive wine section for an authentic French experience. The Skytrax World Airline Awards, often dubbed "the Oscars of the aviation industry", celebrate their 25th year with a reputation for their unbiased international customer voting system. In 2024, a survey conducted from September 2023 to March 2024 garnered 21.42 million eligible entries from passengers of over 100 nationalities. This survey was offered in six major international languages. Edward Plaisted, CEO of Skytrax said: "We congratulate Star Alliance on a fabulous double achievement at this year’s awards, winning the World's Best Airline Alliance and the World's Best Airline Alliance Lounge categories. The latest Star Alliance lounge at Terminal 1, Paris CDG Airport has quickly established itself as a flagship facility and a customer favourite.” In addition to the Alliance awards, 16 Star Alliance member airlines, including Air India and Vistara, received 47 top honours in individual categories—World’s Best First Class, Best Business Class Catering, and several best regional airline awards.
Star Alliance commemorates 10 years at Heathrow Terminal 2
Together with its member airlines, Star Alliance is delighted to complete a decade of excellence at Terminal 2 – its home at Heathrow. The Queen’s Terminal has served as the base for 23 Star Alliance member airlines, facilitating smooth transfers and operations for over 15 million passengers every year, representing nearly 20% of the available seat capacity from the airport. In celebration of the occasion, Theo Panagiotoulias, Star Alliance Chief Executive Officer said: “Heathrow stands as a vital hub for our member airlines. With our collective offerings at the shared terminal, we're proud to facilitate seamless experiences for thousands of passengers daily. On behalf of our member airlines, I extend gratitude to Heathrow for its decade-long support, enabling superior traveller experiences every day and for years to come.” Under the "Move Under One Roof" strategic initiative, Star Alliance consolidated its member airlines at a single location in 2014, establishing a true alliance hub. This initiative enables passengers to easily connect between Star Alliance member airlines, significantly streamlining airport operations and enhancing the experience. Ross Baker, Chief Customer Officer, Heathrow said: “Heathrow is delighted to celebrate a decade of delivering excellent service to passengers travelling through Terminal 2, previously voted ‘Best Terminal in the World’ at the World Sky Awards by Skytrax. In collaboration with our partner airlines, including Star Alliance and its member airlines, we have seen almost 73 million passengers travel through Terminal 2’s doors and enjoy the world-class retail and food and beverage options available. Reaching this landmark is an opportunity for us to enjoy looking back on a decade of achievements, while also looking ahead to the next ten years as we continue to create an extraordinary airport that is fit for the future.” Customers are welcomed by the prominent Star Alliance branding positioned above the airline check-in counters at Departures in T2. Together with member airlines, Star Alliance provides facilities for a seamless airport experience, including: Gold Track Security: A benefit that offers faster security access via dedicated lanes for Star Alliance Gold status customers, regardless of the cabin they travel in. - Baggage Tracking: A service that allows passengers to know where their bags are as they move in the journey. Each day at London Heathrow, over 85,000 bags on Star Alliance member airline flights are scanned for the customers’ peace of mind. - Star Connection Centre: A service designed to expedite passengers with tight connections by providing fast-track access through the airport. The Heathrow Star Connection Centre takes pride in expediting over 1000 passengers and 750 bags monthly, saving costs for member airlines and enhancing travellers' experience. - Complimentary Heathrow Express Upgrade: Star Alliance Gold status customers enjoy exclusive and free upgrades to the Business First cabin on Heathrow Express between the airport and Paddington station. Starting June 2024, this offer extends to one companion travelling with the Gold status customer. From Terminal 2, 23 Star Alliance airlines – Aegean Airlines, Air Canada, Air China, Air India, ANA, Asiana Airlines, Austrian, Avianca, Brussels Airlines, Croatia Airlines, EGYPTAIR, Ethiopian Airlines, EVA Air, LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, Scandinavian Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, Singapore Airlines, SWISS, TAP Air Portugal, THAI, Turkish Airlines and United - currently offer 124 flights a day to 44 destinations in 23 countries.
Star Alliance will continue its tradition of exceptional global connectivity in Scandinavia
Since its founding in 1997, Star Alliance and its member airlines have maintained a significant presence in Northern Europe. Loyal customers who travel to and from Sweden, Denmark, and Norway have come to appreciate the many benefits of the superior customer experience and loyalty reciprocation that Star Alliance member airlines proudly provide globally, and in Scandinavia. SAS Scandinavian Airlines plans to exit Star Alliance on August 31, 2024. On behalf of our member airlines, we thank SAS and its employees for contributing to the superior customer experience for which Star Alliance is globally renowned. During this transition, the experience of our customers is top of mind. Star Alliance, its member airlines, and SAS intend to ensure that this change is seamless for customers, particularly with respect to previously booked flights. Members of frequent flyer programs should consult their individual airline programs directly with specific questions related to mileage accrual and redemption for travel within the Star Alliance network. Going forward, 17 Star Alliance member airlines will continue to offer direct flights to and from Scandinavia, including Aegean Airlines, Air Canada, Air China, Air India, Austrian, Brussels Airlines, Croatia Airlines, EgyptAir, Ethiopian Airlines, LOT Pol ish Airlines, Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, Swiss, TAP Air Portugal, Thai, Turkish Airlines, and United. These Star Alliance member airlines will operate more than 3,700 flights per month to Scandinavia from 23 hubs worldwide, offering customers connections to more than 1,100 international destinations — the most by any airline alliance. In the future, Star Alliance member airlines may bring additional service to Scandinavia. On September 1, Star Alliance will have 25 member airlines dedicated to fulfilling and enhancing their customers’ global journeys. Star Alliance continues to hold its position as the world's largest and foremost global airline alliance, providing over 17,000 daily departures and serving more than 1,100 airports across 187 countries. In Scandinavia, Star Alliance and its member airlines will continue to provide customers with a wide choice of travel options and focus on delivering a superior customer experience.
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TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Hong Kong 2026
Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives,
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TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Malaysia 2024
Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives, the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards programme aims to spotlight key players that consistently redefine industry standards and elevate customer experiences.
TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Asia 2024
Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives, the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards programme aims to spotlight key players that consistently redefine industry standards and elevate customer experiences.