SkyTeam, one of the world’s three major airline alliances, serves millions of passengers annually through its extensive network of member airlines. Founded in 2000, SkyTeam has grown to become a powerhouse in global aviation, connecting travelers to over 1,000 destinations in more than 170 countries.
The History of SkyTeam
SkyTeam was founded on June 22, 2000, by four founding members:
- Delta Air Lines (United States)
- Air France (France)
- Korean Air (South Korea)
- Aeromexico (Mexico)
These airlines joined forces to compete with Star Alliance and the emerging oneworld alliance, creating what would become one of the world’s largest airline partnerships. Since its founding, the alliance has grown significantly, adding major carriers from across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East to create a truly global network.
Current Member Airlines
| Airline | Country | Hub Airport (Code) | Year Joined |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aerolineas Argentinas | Argentina 🇦🇷 | Ministro Pistarini International Airport (EZE) | 2012 |
| Aeromexico | Mexico 🇲🇽 | Mexico City International Airport (MEX) | 2000 |
| Air Europa | Spain 🇪🇸 | Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) | 2007 |
| Air France | France 🇫🇷 | Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) | 2000 |
| China Airlines | Taiwan 🇹🇼 | Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) | 2011 |
| China Eastern | China 🇨🇳 | Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) | 2011 |
| Czech Airlines | Czech Republic 🇨🇿 | Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG) | 2001 |
| Delta Air Lines | United States 🇺🇸 | Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) | 2000 |
| Garuda Indonesia | Indonesia 🇮🇩 | Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) | 2014 |
| Kenya Airways | Kenya 🇰🇪 | Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) | 2007 |
| KLM | Netherlands 🇳🇱 | Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) | 2004 |
| Korean Air | South Korea 🇰🇷 | Incheon International Airport (ICN) | 2000 |
| Middle East Airlines | Lebanon 🇱🇧 | Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY) | 2012 |
| SAS Scandinavian Airlines | Denmark/Norway/Sweden 🇩🇰 🇳🇴 🇸🇪 | Copenhagen Airport (CPH) | 2024 |
| Saudia | Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 | King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) | 2012 |
| TAROM | Romania 🇷🇴 | Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP) | 2010 |
| Vietnam Airlines | Vietnam 🇻🇳 | Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) | 2010 |
| XiamenAir | China 🇨🇳 | Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN) | 2012 |
Regional Distribution
| Region | Member Airlines |
|---|---|
| North America | Delta Air Lines |
| South America | Aerolineas Argentinas |
| Central America | Aeromexico |
| Europe | Air Europa, Air France, Czech Airlines, KLM, SAS Scandinavian Airlines, TAROM |
| East Asia | China Airlines, China Eastern, Korean Air, XiamenAir |
| Southeast Asia | Garuda Indonesia, Vietnam Airlines |
| Middle East | Middle East Airlines, Saudia |
| Africa | Kenya Airways |
Benefits of SkyTeam Membership
SkyTeam membership offers travelers several advantages:
- SkyTeam Elite and Elite Plus Status: Frequent flyers can enjoy benefits across all member airlines, including priority check-in, extra baggage allowance, and lounge access. Here is a detailed guide on SkyTeam Elite Status
- Miles Earning and Redemption: Passengers can earn and redeem miles on any SkyTeam member airline through their preferred carrier’s loyalty program.
- Seamless Connectivity: With coordinated schedules and shared airport terminals, connections between SkyTeam flights are more convenient.
- Global Lounge Access: SkyTeam operates over 750 airport lounges worldwide, with Elite Plus members enjoying access regardless of their travel class.
Bottomline
SkyTeam Alliance stands as one of aviation’s most extensive networks, connecting passengers to over 1,000 destinations through its 18 member airlines. With a strong presence across six continents and seamless integration of services, the alliance offers travelers unparalleled global reach combined with local expertise. Whether flying for business or leisure, SkyTeam’s comprehensive network and harmonized benefits make it a compelling choice for international travel.