Press Release 2004

Star Alliance welcomes South African Airways' decision to join the alliance  

Star Alliance™, the airline network for Earth, today welcomed South African Airways' decision to pursue membership in Star Alliance.

"We are always interested in adding quality airlines to our alliance, particularly those which already have long-standing and successful relationships with our member carriers," said Jaan Albrecht, CEO, Star Alliance. "South African Airways is the most prestigious carrier in Africa and will significantly enhance our network across the continent and beyond. It's good for customers, good for South African Airways and it's good for Star Alliance."

Albrecht said Star Alliance member carriers will be looking forward to making an official announcement at the next Star Alliance Chief Executive Board meeting in June.

Star Alliance was established in 1997 as the first truly global airline alliance to offer customers global reach and a smooth travel experience. The members are Air Canada, Air New Zealand, ANA, Asiana Airlines, Austrian, bmi, LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, Mexicana Airlines, Scandinavian Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Spanair, Thai Airways International, United, and VARIG Brazilian Airlines.  US Airways is scheduled to join the alliance in 2004.

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