New Delhi, Jan 21- Air India is finally expected to join Star Alliance, a global network of airlines after a seven-year wait, Press Trust of India (PTI) reported.
“Without giving a specific date, one can say that we will complete the work (by Air India to join the alliance) by this summer. After that, the airline will be ready to join right away,” Star Alliance chief executive officer Mark F Schwab told reporters on Sunday.
Air India was accepted as a potential member of Star Alliance in December 2007, but the integration process was halted in July 2011 to enable the airline to complete the merger with the former Indian Airlines.
The national carrier was once more invited to join the global airline alliance last December following an unanimous decision by member airlines.
Air India is the first Indian carrier to join Star Alliance.
Air India chairman and managing director Rohit Nandan said joining the alliance would significantly improve the airline’s customer services, frequent flyer programme and brand value as a whole.
– Bernama
