From Star Alliance to SkyTeam: SAS Alliance Swap is Complete
The Stockholm-based carrier becomes the first new member since Virgin Atlantic joined last year
Photo: Courtesy of SAS
Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) has officially joined the SkyTeam alliance, becoming its 20th full member. This significant development comes after Air France-KLM acquired a 19.9 percent stake in SAS last year, leading to the completion of the acquisition on August 28.
As a result, SAS, a Star Alliance founding member, has officially transitioned to SkyTeam, aligning itself with renowned members such as Air France and KLM.
Photo: Courtesy of SAS
Like many airlines, SAS struggled to recover financially from the pandemic while facing significant challenges in rising costs and heightened competition in key markets. These challenges caused SAS to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in July 2022 and seek outside investment.
In October 2023, it was announced that Air France-KLM would take a significant stake in SAS when rumors first appeared that the Stockholm-based carrier would switch from Star Alliance to SkyTeam.
What SkyTeam Passengers Can Expect
Now, passengers flying with SAS have greater access to more than 1,000 destinations across the world, being able to make use of seamless connections and codeshare flights across the SkyTeam members’ extensive global networks.
According to SkyTeam, it’s notably the only airline alliance to serve the world’s northernmost and southernmost commercial airports, Svalbard (LYR) in Norway and Ushuaia (USH) in Argentina, respectively.
Photo: Courtesy of SkyTeam
Members of SAS’s frequent flyer plan – EuroBonus – can now earn and redeem miles when flying with most other SkyTeam member airlines. EuroBonus Silver members can now enjoy SkyTeam Elite member benefits, while EuroBonus Gold Diamond members are recognized as SkyTeam Elite Plus members, providing them access to SkyPriority perks and lounges.
New SkyTeam Partner
SAS is the first airline to join the alliance since Virgin Atlantic did so in March 2023, and it takes the total number of active SkyTeam members to 20:
- Aerolineas Argentinas
- Aeromexico
- Air Europa
- Air France
- China Airlines
- China Eastern
- Czech Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- Garuda Indonesia
- ITA Airways
- Kenya Airways
- KLM
- Korean Air
- Middle East Airlines
- SAS
- Saudia
- TAROM
- Vietnam Airlines
- Virgin Atlantic
- XiamenAir
Smooth Transition Goal
“This is the beginning of a new era for SAS,” said Anko van der Werff, President and CEO of SkyTeam. “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.
Photo: Courtesy of SkyTeam
“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.”
Patrick Roux, CEO of SkyTeam, added: “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.”
