Air India will join the Star Alliance network this summer, becoming the first Indian airline to be part of a global airline alliance. The national carrier’s membership takes effect on July 11. From that date, members of Air India’s Flying Returns program will be able to earn and redeem miles on flights operated by any Star Alliance carrier, and members of other Star Alliance frequent‑flyer programs will be able to earn and redeem miles on Air India flights.
Jeffrey Goh, Chief Operating Officer of Star Alliance, commented on the move: “We look forward to welcoming Air India passengers to our global network and offering them our Alliance benefits. At the same time we are pleased to be providing our existing customers improved access to a region which includes the world’s fifth‑largest domestic aviation network.”
Air India was originally accepted as a prospective member in 2007, but the integration was paused in July 2011 so the airline could concentrate on its merger with Indian Airlines. With full membership now confirmed, the airline will add about 400 daily flights and 35 new domestic destinations in India to the Star Alliance network, significantly expanding connectivity within the region.
This integration brings practical benefits for travelers: better coordinated schedules, increased opportunities to earn and redeem miles across a larger set of routes, and improved access to domestic and international connections through alliance partners. For frequent travelers to and within India, the move is likely to simplify transfers and increase options when booking with Star Alliance carriers.
Air India’s entry into Star Alliance also strengthens the alliance’s presence in a market with growing demand for air travel. By integrating Air India’s extensive domestic network with Star Alliance’s global reach, passengers gain enhanced route choices and more seamless travel experiences across member airlines.
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