Editorial Note — Soraya Alcalá
Asiana Airlines’ confirmed exit from Star Alliance represents a structural change within one of the world’s major global airline alliances. The transition affects connectivity, loyalty benefits, and coordinated operations across key international markets. This editorial highlights the main implications outlined in the official announcement as the industry prepares for the airline’s departure in December 2026.
© Soraya Alcalá · Original Editorial Note
The Alliance will continue to provide seamless global connectivity through 14 member airlines in Seoul
Asiana Airlines, headquartered in Seoul, will formally leave Star Alliance on December 16, 2026, 23:59 Korea Standard Time.
Since joining Star Alliance in 2003, Asiana Airlines has played a valued role in delivering seamless customer experiences across the network. On behalf of all member airlines, Star Alliance thanks Asiana Airlines and its employees for contributing to the exceptional customer experience that the Alliance is known for worldwide.
Star Alliance and Asiana Airlines will work closely together to ensure a seamless and coordinated experience for customers in the lead-up to the airline’s departure from the Alliance. Customers enrolled in any Star Alliance member airlines’ frequent flyer program may continue to earn miles on Asiana Airlines-operated flights departing on or before October 15, 2026. Customers may also continue to redeem miles for Star Alliance award tickets and upgrades on Asiana Airlines for travel completed on or before December 16, 2026, subject to the redemption policies and timelines of their respective frequent flyer programme. Customers are encouraged to consult their respective frequent flyer programme for details. Additionally, Star Alliance Gold and Silver status customers may continue to enjoy alliance status benefits, including priority services, when travelling on Asiana Airlines until December 16, 2026. Star Alliance Gold customers may also continue to enjoy lounge access, including at eligible Asiana Airlines lounges when travelling on the Star Alliance network.
Following Asiana Airlines’ departure from Star Alliance, 14 Star Alliance member airlines will continue to operate to and from Incheon International Airport, including Air Canada, Air China, Air India, Air New Zealand, EVA Air, Ethiopian Airlines, Lufthansa, LOT Polish Airlines, SWISS, Singapore Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, Thai Airways, Turkish Airlines, and United. Today, these member airlines operate more than 1,900 direct flights each month from Incheon International Airport to 29 destinations worldwide.
Effective December 17, 2026, Star Alliance will comprise 25 member airlines, continuing to make multi-airline global journeys effortless for customers.
