AVIATION - More Stars in the sky

expresstravelworld.com, Jan 2008

Star Alliance-the world's biggest airline alliance- recently celebrated its tenth anniversary by inducting two Chinese carriers-Air China based in Beijing and Shanghai Airlines in Shanghai- while its Chief Executives Board unanimously approved Air India's membership in Beijing.
By inducting an Indian carrier, Star has now filled its 'white spots' of India and China. Russia and South America will be next, according to Star CEO Jaan Albrecht. Talks are on with TAM Brazil to replace Varig and restore Star to Latin America. Next year, Turkish Airlines and EgyptAir are expected to join, extending the alliance in South East Europe and North Africa. Air India will become a member once integration of its systems to align with those of Star is completed within 15-18 months, said chairman and managing director, Vasudevan Thulasidas, who specially flew to Beijing for the announcement.

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