THAI Smile Airways to Join Star Alliance as Connecting Partner (Not Full Member)

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Star Alliance unveiled the Connecting Partner model back in June 2016 to allow customers traveling on an itinerary which includes a transfer between a Star Alliance member airline and a Connecting Partner to enjoy standard Alliance benefits such as passenger and baggage through check-in. In addition, customers who have achieved Star Alliance Gold Status in their frequent flyer programme will enjoy premium customer benefits even on flights operated by the Connecting Partner if the aforementioned criteria has been met. Star Alliance has just announced plans for THAI Smile Airways to become the second Connecting Partner in its global network.

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Photo Credit: THAI Smile Airways

Juneyao Airlines was the first Connecting Partner under the global network and it entered back in 2017. Pending all entry requirements, THAI Smile Airways is expected to join the Star Alliance network as a Connecting Partner sometime in 2020.

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