Introduction to SkyTeam
Founded in 2000, SkyTeam was the last of three airline alliances out there aiming to unify airline companies worldwide. With the slogan “Caring More About You,” SkyTeam consists of 20 carrier members (and 11 cargo-only members of SkyTeam Cargo) that link travelers with over 1,000 destinations in 177 countries, operating around 16,000 daily flights and serving over 730 million passengers each year.
Members of the SkyTeam alliance gain access to over 600 airline lounges globally, dedicated check-in lines, and expedited security screening. Additionally, provided they earn enough points through affiliated airlines’ frequent-flyer programs, members benefit from priority reservation waitlisting, enhanced booking options, and quicker boarding procedures.
History and Expansion
SkyTeam was established in 2000 by founding airline members Aeroméxico, Air France, Delta Air Lines, and Korean Air. They convened in New York City to create the world’s third airline alliance. Soon after, SkyTeam Cargo was founded, including Aeromexpress, Air France Cargo, Delta Air Logistics, and Korean Air Cargo.
The alliance saw significant expansion in 2004, when Aeroflot joined, marking the entry of the first Russian carrier. Notable additions that same year included China Southern Airlines, Continental Airlines, KLM, and Northwest Airlines, heralding a new era of growth for this airline alliance.
SkyTeam has continued to evolve and expand with the inclusion of new airlines such as China Eastern, China Airlines, Garuda Indonesia, Aerolíneas Argentinas, Saudia, Middle East Airlines, and Xiamen Airlines since 2010. This expansion notably strengthened SkyTeam’s coverage in the Middle East, Asia, and Latin America, with further plans to enhance its presence in Brazil and India.
Membership Requirements
To be a part of SkyTeam, members must meet over 100 specific safety, quality, IT, and customer service standards, covering aspects from elite mileage recognition to lounge access. Furthermore, routine audits of member airlines ensure compliance with these rigorous standards.
Customer Benefits
Membership programs within SkyTeam are categorized as either SkyTeam Elite or SkyTeam Elite Plus. This Elite status is recognized across all partner airlines, providing consistent benefits for frequent travelers.
One significant advantage of flying with SkyTeam partners is the ability for check-in across the alliance. Agents from any SkyTeam airline can assign seats and issue boarding passes for connections on other alliance airlines, streamlining the travel experience.
Especially crucial for business travelers, SkyTeam Elite Plus members are guaranteed a reservation (full-fare Y-class) on any long-haul flight within the SkyTeam network, even when flights appear sold out. To utilize this benefit, members simply need to contact the airline at least 24 hours in advance.
For habitual travelers who accrue sufficient rewards points in frequent flyer programs, SkyTeam offers additional benefits such as priority reservation waitlisting, standby preferences, expedited boarding, improved baggage handling, and an easier check-in process. Furthermore, advantages include preferred seating options, more free checked luggage, access to lounges, and guaranteed reservations on sold-out flights.
