Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) has officially left Star Alliance and joined SkyTeam as of September 1, 2024. This transition follows a significant restructuring process during which SAS underwent financial challenges and emerged from Chapter 11 protection. The shift also includes a 19.9% investment from the Air France-KLM Group, aiming to enhance SAS’s position within SkyTeam and expand its partnership network.
What the move means for frequent flyers
SAS EuroBonus members will continue to enjoy similar benefits under SkyTeam as they did with Star Alliance. Program statuses will remain largely unchanged: EuroBonus Silver members will become SkyTeam Elite members, enjoying perks such as priority check-in and additional baggage allowance. EuroBonus Gold and Diamond members will be elevated to SkyTeam Elite Plus, offering access to lounges, fast-track security, and priority boarding.
However, some limitations exist. Currently, SAS Elite Plus status may not be recognized by some SkyTeam airlines, such as Middle East Airlines, Aeromexico, and Aerolineas Argentinas, due to IT integration issues. Additionally, SAS Gold and Diamond members flying on Virgin Atlantic will be directed to the Aspire lounge rather than the more exclusive Virgin Clubhouse when traveling in Economy or Premium classes.
Impact on transatlantic routes
One notable consequence of SAS joining SkyTeam is its absence from the transatlantic joint venture operated by Virgin Atlantic, Delta Air Lines, Air France, and KLM. This joint venture requires approval from various government bodies due to potential impacts on competition, especially since SAS was not previously involved in Star Alliance’s similar arrangement. Regulatory challenges may delay SAS’s full integration into this network, potentially affecting pricing and route availability on transatlantic flights.
Expanded network and new opportunities
Joining SkyTeam opens up SAS’s network to over 1,060 destinations worldwide, providing passengers with broader travel options. The alliance now serves both the world’s northernmost and southernmost commercial airports—Svalbard in Norway and Ushuaia in Argentina—highlighting its extensive reach. SAS also plans to resume key routes, such as flights from Copenhagen to Seattle, further integrating with Delta Air Lines’ hub and boosting connectivity between Scandinavia and the Pacific Northwest.
What passengers should expect
The transition to SkyTeam brings a range of benefits, but it also introduces some uncertainties. While the basic loyalty benefits remain intact, frequent travelers may experience changes in lounge access, partner recognition, and the competitive landscape of transatlantic routes. Overall, SAS’s move is part of a broader strategy to stabilize financially and expand its service offerings under the new alliance.