End of an Era: Asiana Airlines Sets Official Date to Exit Star Alliance

The massive consolidation of the South Korean aviation market has reached its definitive milestone.

In an official joint statement, Star Alliance and Asiana Airlines have announced that the Seoul-based carrier will formally withdraw from the alliance on December 16, 2026, at 23:59 Korea Standard Time. This ends Asiana’s 23-year tenure with the network as it prepares to be completely absorbed by rival mega-carrier and SkyTeam member, Korean Air.

Effective December 17, 2026, the Asiana brand will be phased out, and its operations will shift under the Korean Air banner. For frequent flyers with upcoming travel plans or massive mileage balances, this transition brings immediate rules you need to know.

---

The Timeline: Earning and Redeeming Miles

If you frequently book Asiana flights or use Star Alliance partners (like United MileagePlus or Air Canada Aeroplan) to rack up points, keep these hard cut-off dates on your radar:

• Earning Miles: You can automatically earn points/miles on Asiana-operated flights departing on or before October 15, 2026. Any flights taken between October 16 and December 16 will require a manual retroactive mileage request.
• Redeeming Miles: You can continue to redeem partner miles for Star Alliance award tickets and upgrades on Asiana for travel completed on or before December 16, 2026.

Warning: What Happens to Already-Ticketed Awards?

According to Asiana's updated frequently asked questions, Star Alliance award flights booked using Asiana Club miles scheduled to depart on or after December 17, 2026, will not be honored. Affected tickets will be fully refunded and the miles reinstated without penalty. If you have partner flights booked for late winter 2026, it is highly recommended to review your itineraries immediately.

---

Elite Status and Lounge Access

For Star Alliance Silver and Gold elite members, business as usual continues through mid-December. Priority check-in, extra baggage allowance, and access to eligible Asiana lounges at Seoul Incheon (ICN) remain intact until the December 16 deadline.

If you hold elite status directly through the Asiana Diamond Club (or higher), your status will be mapped over to a corresponding elite tier within the SkyTeam alliance once the merger goes live.

---

What This Means for Incheon Airport

While losing Asiana is a blow to Star Alliance's presence in East Asia, the alliance has reassured passengers that global connectivity via Seoul remains strong. Moving into 2027, 14 Star Alliance member airlines—including United, Singapore Airlines, Lufthansa, Air Canada, and EVA Air—will continue operating over 1,900 direct monthly flights out of Incheon International Airport to 29 destinations worldwide.

The landscape of global aviation is shifting fast. Asiana has been a beloved five-star favorite for transpacific travelers since 1988, and watching the brand wind down marks a truly historic transition.

---

Do you have upcoming flights booked on Asiana Airlines? How will this merger affect your points strategy? Sound off in the comments below!

Runway Views & Skyline Bars: Inside The Massive New Star Alliance Lounges Coming To JFK

If you’ve flown a Star Alliance carrier out of New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) recently, you know the premium ground experience has been a bit of a mixed bag. Navigating the outdated spaces in Terminal 1 or Terminal 7 hasn't exactly felt like the cutting edge of luxury.

But a massive $4.2 billion airport transformation is underway, and Star Alliance flyers are about to get a major upgrade.

Thanks to the redevelopment of JFK Terminal 6 and the upcoming New Terminal One, two Star Alliance heavyweights—Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines—are building stunning, massive new flagship lounges that will redefine pre-flight luxury at JFK.

Here is everything you need to know about the mega-lounges coming to New York’s premier gateway.

The Mega-Hub at Terminal 6: Lufthansa’s 36,000 Sq. Ft. Oasis

The biggest news comes out of the brand-new Terminal 6. The Lufthansa Group (including Lufthansa, Swiss, Austrian, and Brussels Airlines) is moving its operations here, and they are bringing Star Alliance siblings ANA and Air Canada along with them from Terminal 7.

To accommodate this massive influx of premium passengers, Lufthansa is building a sprawling, multi-tiered lounge precinct.

The Footprint: A staggering 36,000 square feet, making it one of the largest lounge spaces at JFK. Travelers will take an escalator directly from the departures level straight into the premium complex.

The Design: The lounges will ditch the sterile, older German aesthetic for Lufthansa's fresh, warm design language—similar to the acclaimed lounges that debuted at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). Think warmer woods, softer lighting, and design cues inspired by their flagship Allegris cabins.

The Highlight: The Skyline Bar: The centerpiece of the lounge will be the Skyline Bar, a sleek concept serving everything from barista-crafted coffee by day to premium cocktails, fine wines, and local New York craft beers by night.

First Class & HON Circle Perks: While it's still being decided if there will be a standalone First Class Lounge, elite passengers can expect a private, walled-off dining sanctuary featuring high-end à la carte menus, top-tier Champagne, and ultra-personalized service.

Direct Boarding: In the ultimate convenience flex, the lounge will feature direct boarding to three of Terminal 6’s ten departure gates. No need to leave the lounge early to stand in a gate line—you go straight from your glass of wine onto the jet bridge.

Double the Size: The New Turkish Airlines Lounge

Not to be outdone, Turkish Airlines—renowned globally for its spectacular food and legendary hospitality—is getting a massive upgrade of its own.

As part of the shift into the New Terminal One, Turkish Airlines is abandoning its cramped, 5,000-square-foot footprint in the old Terminal 1.

The Footprint: The new space will measure 11,000 square feet, more than doubling its current size.

The Vibe: Known for bringing the flavors of Istanbul to the airport, expect an incredible spread of live cooking stations, fresh mezze, and traditional Turkish tea and coffee.

The Views: The new space will boast expansive, floor-to-ceiling views of the JFK airfield, making it a paradise for aviation geeks and relaxed travelers alike.

Who Gets Access?

While airline lounges can sometimes feel like a puzzle to unlock, access rules for these new Star Alliance spaces will follow the alliance's reliable standard structure:

Passenger Class / Status - Access Level

International First Class - Access to First Class/Senator sections + 1 guest

International Business Class - Access to Business Class lounges (No guests)

Star Alliance Gold Elites - Access to Senator/Business lounges + 1 guest (must be on the same flight)

Note for United flyers: If you hold Star Alliance Gold status through United MileagePlus, remember that standard rules apply—you generally need to be on an eligible international itinerary to access these partner lounges within the U.S.

The Bottom Line

For years, Oneworld passengers have bragged about the excellent joint American Airlines and British Airways lounges in Terminal 8, while SkyTeam flyers have enjoyed Delta’s massive Sky Clubs. Now, Star Alliance is finally swinging back with some serious heavy artillery.

Whether you’re heading to Frankfurt on Lufthansa Business Class or catching a late-night flight to Tokyo on ANA, JFK is about to become a whole lot more welcoming. Stay tuned for official opening dates as construction on Terminal 6 and the New Terminal One wraps up!

New Star Alliance Lounge At Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport Terminal 3, China

Star Alliance has unveiled its lounge at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN), located in the newly opened Terminal 3. The opening builds on the success of the Alliance’s first lounge in Asia in 2024, also in Guangzhou, and reflects the continued evolution of its presence in one of the region’s growing international gateways.

The opening ceremony took place at the new lounge in Terminal 3 of Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, and was presided over by Ambar Franco, Vice President - Customer Experience at Star Alliance and Qi Yaoming, Deputy General Manager of Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, alongside representatives from member airlines, airport partners, and media guests.

Ambar Franco, Vice President - Customer Experience at Star Alliance said, “Lounges are a critical part of the customer experience for Star Alliance member airline passengers, supporting our vision for more seamless and effortless journeys. As Guangzhou continues to grow as an important international gateway in China, this new space reflects the evolution of our lounge offering. It is bigger and better, and will deliver enhanced comfort and functionality for Star Alliance member airline customers.”

The lounge spans approximately 1,400 square metres with seating for around 245 guests and features a 700-square-metre outdoor garden, a distinctive open-air space that remains rare in airport environments, offering passengers a serene setting to relax and unwind before their journey. Open 24 hours a day, it is designed to support the needs of international travellers across varying flight schedules, providing a calm and comfortable space to rest or work before their journeys. The Star Alliance Guangzhou lounge will welcome First and Business class passengers, and Star Alliance Gold status customers travelling on member airline flights, irrespective of the cabin class, departing from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport Terminal 3.

There are 10 Star Alliance member airlines operating from Guangzhou, including Air China, ANA, Asiana Airlines, EGYPTAIR, Ethiopian Airlines, EVA Air, Shenzhen Airlines, Singapore Airlines, THAI, and Turkish Airlines, with a total of 1,500 weekly departures to 52 destinations across 10 countries.

Designed in close collaboration with Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, the lounge reflects elements of Lingnan culture and Guangzhou’s natural landscape, creating a strong sense of place throughout. At its centre is a sculptural installation inspired by the kapok flower, the city’s emblem, reinterpreted through contemporary design. A dedicated tea experience further anchors the space in local tradition, with tea artists guiding guests through the craft and cultural significance of tea.

Operated by Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport Business Travel Service Co. Ltd, the Star Alliance lounge is set to play a key role in enhancing the travel experience for international passengers, strengthening the strategic collaboration between the two partners.

“Going forward, we will continue to strengthen strategic coordination with Star Alliance and major airlines, carrying out deeper cooperation in route network expansion, transfer facilitation, and smart travel, to jointly build a better international aviation ecosystem,” said Qi Yaoming, Deputy General Manager of Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport.

The lounge offers a variety of spaces designed around different travel needs, including rest areas, sleep pods, private rooms, reading spaces, and dedicated work zones. The dining programme, developed in partnership with the five-star chef team of Pullman Hotel, features a selection of Chinese and Western dishes focused on freshness and balance, complemented by a range of amenities designed to enhance comfort and convenience throughout the journey.

Lounge operations have now fully transitioned from Terminal 1 to the new lounge in Terminal 3.

Star Alliance unites 26 of the world’s leading airlines, providing travellers with seamless access to over 1,150 airports across 190 countries - covering 90% of the world. Further connecting flights are offered by Star Alliance Connecting Partner Juneyao Airlines.

Travelore News: ITA Airways Joins Star Alliance

Star Alliance officially welcomed ITA Airways as its newest member, marking the completion of the Italian carrier’s integration into the world’s largest airline alliance.

ITA Airways marked its entry into the Alliance during a ceremony held at the Piazza di Spagna Lounge, Rome Fiumicino Airport Terminal 3. The ceremony was presided over by ITA Airways Chief Executive Officer and General Manager Joerg Eberhart, Star Alliance Chief Executive Officer Theo Panagiotoulias, and Lufthansa Group Chief Commercial Officer Dieter Vranckx, in the presence of media and institutional guests.

Starting April 1, ITA Airways will be fully connected into the Alliance’s global network, linking its Rome Fiumicino hub and Milan Linate airport, served by 17 Star Alliance members collectively, with more than 1,150 destinations worldwide. Customers traveling across the network can now benefit from through check-in, reciprocal frequent flyer recognition, and access to Star Alliance lounges, creating a more seamless customer experience, in and out of Italy.

Celebrating the milestone, Star Alliance Chief Executive Officer Theo Panagiotoulias said: “On behalf of our members, I am delighted to welcome ITA Airways as the 26th member of Star Alliance. This is the result of a focused and collaborative integration effort. With ITA Airways on board, we not only expand our network to and from Italy, but also elevate the connected experience of our customers when traveling across multiple airlines, through access to the world’s largest network of airport lounges, more comprehensive loyalty benefits, and other benefits like baggage tracking - all designed to enhance the journey at every step.”

Joerg Eberhart, CEO and General Manager of ITA Airways, said: “Joining Star Alliance marks a historic milestone for ITA Airways and a defining step in our growth. By becoming part of the world’s largest and most established global airline network, we significantly expand our international reach while offering our passengers a more seamless, consistent, and high‑quality travel experience, with access to over 1,150 destinations worldwide, smoother connections, integrated services, and a stronger premium proposition. At the same time, we enter Star Alliance bringing with us our distinctive Italian identity, enriching the Alliance and reinforcing ITA Airways’ role in connecting Italy with the world, combining global standards of excellence with the warmth and elegance that define the Italian way of flying.”

ITA Airways’ induction into the Alliance has been mentored by the Lufthansa Group, and expert teams across the group airlines have facilitated an intense integration program over the last several months.

Dieter Vranckx, Chief Commercial Officer of Lufthansa Group, said: “The Star Alliance membership is only possible thanks to the strong commitment and close collaboration of dedicated teams at ITA Airways, Lufthansa Group and Star Alliance. We are pleased to introduce ITA Airways as a fully fledged hub airline into the Lufthansa Group and into the Alliance, expanding options for travelers across Europe and the world. Together, ITA Airways and the Lufthansa Group, are unlocking a joint value proposition that will benefit our customers, our partners, and the Star Alliance ecosystem.”

ITA Airways, which flies over 16 million customers every year, adds more than 350 daily flights to the Alliance network, supported by a strong domestic and regional footprint. The addition expands travel options across Italy and Europe, while improving connectivity between Southern Europe and key international markets.

As part of its membership, eligible customers can enjoy priority services, lounge access across the Alliance network, and reciprocal frequent flyer program recognition, including earning and redeeming miles. Star Alliance Gold customers will also have access to ITA Airways lounges in Rome, Milan, and Catania.

With the addition of ITA Airways, Star Alliance now comprises 26 member airlines, offering more than 17,500 daily flights across a global network spanning over 190 countries.

The Italian airline ITA Airways is the newest member of the Lufthansa Group, with the Group having a 41 percent stake in the airline. Now, the network carriers consist of Lufthansa Airlines, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, and ITA Airways. These airlines offer their customers a premium experience, with high-quality products and services. The multi-hub strategy offers passengers a comprehensive route network along with the greatest possible flexibility for their journey. Eurowings is positioned as a carrier with an exclusive focus on point-to-point traffic on European short- and medium-haul routes. The Passenger Airlines segment also includes the regional airlines Lufthansa CityLine, Lufthansa City Airlines, Air Dolomiti, Edelweiss Air, Discover Airlines, and the equity investment in SunExpress, the joint venture with Turkish Airlines. Since the summer of 2021, Discover Airlines has complemented the Lufthansa Group's offering in the growing segment of leisure travel.

Aviation Services comprises the segments Logistics and MRO, as well as additional businesses, which in particular include Lufthansa Aviation Training and Lufthansa Systems.

The Lufthansa Group is currently investing in its onboard product, with both Lufthansa’s Allegris and SWISS Senses showcasing an entirely new travel experience. Lufthansa’s Allegris can already be experienced on certain long-haul routes. The full revamp will also include lounges, ground processes, individuality, and exclusivity.

Lufthansa Airlines, SWISS, Austrian Airlines and Brussels Airlines are already members of the Star Alliance.

Travelore News: Star Alliance Opens New Lounge At Paris Charles De Gaulle Airport

Star Alliance, the world’s largest airline alliance, today inaugurated its second lounge at Paris Charles de Gaulle airport. Starting October 13, it will welcome First and Business Class passengers and Star Alliance Gold status customers on member airline flights departing from gates 10 to 38 in Terminal 1. Eligible United Club and Air Canada Maple Leaf Club members may also access the lounge.

The new lounge is conveniently located airside after immigration and security controls in the newest part of the terminal. The sprawling but intimate space can accomodate over 300 guests across approximately 1,300 square meters. It has been designed by the leading architecture firm, Gensler, which also designed the award-winning Star Alliance Los Angeles airport lounge in 2013.

Star Alliance CEO Theo Panagiotoulias said: “Star Alliance stands for elevating the experience of its member airline passengers, and airport lounges play a vital role. We’re very proud to present our new Paris lounge, which is not only a delight to experience but also thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of the modern frequent traveller.”

With great runway views, the lounge offers ample natural light with a glass façade running across its length, giving a sense of further largeness to the space. It continues the design tradition of uniting the evolving desires of today’s travellers with an ambience inspired by the local touch of the destination.

The space is enriched by local brands and artists for the quintessential French charm. Reminiscent of the timeless Parisian aesthetics with wall mouldings and archways, decorated with captivating black and white photographs of the Eiffel Tower, and furnished with meticulously selected pieces by French artists, the lounge promises a visual delight like no other.

Standout features include a stunningly designed Welcome Bar offering a range of beverages, an immersive Wine Bar featuring master wine maker Gerard Bertrand and their wines from the South of France, and a Tea Salon offering an assortment from around the world. For business travellers who prefer a quieter space, there are private work cabins and secluded nooks throughout the lounge.

“Our new Paris lounge expands the count of Star Alliance branded lounges to seven worldwide and takes the airport lounge experience to new heights,” said Christian Draeger, Star Alliance’s Vice President for Customer Experience. “Whether it is the design, décor or the F&B experience, we have carefully curated the lounge for a multi-sensorial experience for guests departing from the dazzling city of Paris.”

The new Star Alliance Paris Lounge offers something for every visitor. Guests can unwind in an abundantly lit Winter Garden or a spacious outdoor courtyard, or freshen up in the well-appointed shower suites.

There are two Star Alliance lounges operating in Terminal 1 now. The first lounge, refurbished in 2019 and located prior to security on level 10, will now serve passengers departing on intra-Schengen flights from gates 50 to 78, as well as guests from various lounge access programs departing from all gates.

At present, 20 Star Alliance member carriers operate from Paris – CDG, offering 464 weekly departures to 34 destinations in 22 countries.

Star Alliance And Its Member Airlines Helping Consumers Navigate The Ever-Changing International Travel Landscape During Covid-19

Star Alliance Travel Information Hub offers greatly expanded utility

FRANKFURT, Germany  – Building upon the successful launch of its Travel Information Hub at the end of June, Star Alliance, the world’s largest global airline alliance, has unveiled a series of useful upgrades to now help passengers plan multi-stop itineraries.

Star Alliance Travel Information Hub

This unique alliance service was created by Star Alliance and its member airlines to help customers navigate the ever-changing international travel landscape that has resulted from measures taken by governments, regulators, and other stakeholders to help contain the spread of COVID-19. The tool provides information on specific health and hygiene measures presented across all elements of the customer journey.

Key Features

In its most recent iteration, the Star Alliance Travel Information Hub provides customers travelling with Star Alliance member airlines a broader and more personalized user experience. Customers may now: 

1. Enter two-segment journey details (two airlines, three airports)

• Previously allowing only a query of a single airport, and a single airline, the Travel Information Hub now permits the user to configure a complete itinerary, including the origin airport, a transfer point, and a connecting airline.
• Country information, both at origin and destination, previously a separate search query, is now integrated into a customer-friendly visual representation of the entire journey.

2. Utilize the Travel Information Hub in four additional languages

• In addition to English, customers can use the website tool in Chinese (Simplified), French, German and Spanish, though query results will be returned to the user in the language offered by the source data.

​​​​​​​3. Avail themselves of an email function to share their findings with others

• This is a particularly helpful feature for friends, colleagues and travel professionals to assist customers by researching on their behalf.

​​​​​​​

"The Star Alliance Travel Information Hub initiative grew out of the need to reduce complexity in air travel in these times of COVID-19," says Christian Draeger, VP Customer Experience of the Alliance. "It combines the input of all 26 of our member airlines, and the many key airports in our global network, to provide our customers specific health and hygiene safety guidance for an ever-expanding array of destinations and transfer points."

More features, and more airports are being added continuously, with the Alliance pledged to continue to offer the most digitally advanced premium travel experience to customers wherever they may be.

With the aviation industry facing the greatest challenge in its history, Star Alliance and its member airlines continue their work with other travel industry stakeholders to help make travel more accessible and to help restore and maintain confidence in air travel, once again connecting people and cultures.

#WeWillReconnect

#FlyWithConfidence

About Star Alliance:

The Star Alliance network was established in 1997 as the first truly global airline alliance to offer worldwide reach, recognition and seamless service to the international traveller. Its acceptance by the market has been recognized by numerous awards, including the Air Transport World Market Leadership Award and Best Airline Alliance by both Business Traveller Magazine and Skytrax. The member airlines are: Aegean Airlines, Air Canada, Air China, Air India, Air New Zealand, ANA, Asiana Airlines, Austrian, Avianca, Brussels Airlines, Copa Airlines, Croatia Airlines, EGYPTAIR, Ethiopian Airlines, EVA Air, LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, Scandinavian Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, Singapore Airlines, South African Airways, SWISS, TAP Air Portugal, THAI, Turkish Airlines, and United. The Star Alliance network offers more than 19,000 daily flights to more than 1,300 airports in 195 countries. Further connecting flights are offered by Star Alliance Connecting Partner, Juneyao Airlines and Thai Smile Airways.

The World’s Most Luxurious Airport Lounges

Layovers can be a hassle, or they can be a slice of heaven. If you have the opportunity to visit one of these airport lounges, you may keep your fingers crossed for flight delays. Lounges have gone way beyond free cocktails and Wifi.

Now, you can savor your trip by indulging in spa treatments, taking a nap, or enjoying a gourmet meal, blogs

Singapore Airlines SilverKris Lounge, Singapore Changi International Airport

Known as one of the top airport lounges in the world, the SilverKris Lounge at Changi airport is huge and accommodating. Fish tanks, orchids, low lighting and great food help make this lounge a soothing oasis. Take a hot shower, get a massage at the spa, or take a nap in your own slumberette.

British Airways Concorde Room, London Heathrow Airport

Decadent Swarovski crystal chandeliers illuminate the gold leaf “Gold Bar” at the elegant British Airways Concorde Room in Heathrow. Fireplaces, gourmet dining, and luxurious furniture create a relaxing pre-flight retreat. You can enjoy a complimentary massage at Elenis Travel Spa, or chill out in your own private room that features a TV, chaise lounge, desk, and shower. For fun, sit in a chair pulled from a Concorde jet made into seating for the Boardroom.

Air France La Premiere Lounge, Charles de Gaulle Airport, Paris

Have a massage, enjoy a fine French meal with wines from France’s premiere wineries, take a shower, lounge in a chaise, and then be escorted via Mercedes to your plane.

Swiss Lounge EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse, Freiburg

Relax in a leather recliner surrounded by palm trees under a giant glass dome while you enjoy the views. Hot and cold buffets and a bar offer plenty of sustenance in a bright uplifting atmosphere.

Star Alliance Lounge, Los Angeles, Tom Bradley International Terminal

Enjoy cocktails by the outdoor terrace fireplace and take in panoramic views of the Hollywood Hills while you wait for your international flight at the LAX Star Alliance lounge. Amenities include a library, shower suites, food and beverages, and iPads upon request.

Qantas First Lounge, Sydney

Luxe Italian marble, Swiss quartzite, glass, stainless steel and modern furniture juxtaposed against vertical foliage make a dramatic yet soothing atmosphere for pre-flight relaxation. Qantas First lounge in Sydney boasts complimentary spa treatments, concierge service, shower suites, gourmet dining, private business suites, and spectacular views of Sydney and Botany Bay.

Virgin Atlantic JFK Clubhouse, JFK International Airport, New York

Mood lighting, a brassiere dining area, and a spa with hair salon are all part of Virgin’s unique Clubhouse experience. Fun, vibrant furniture, like a ruby-red ball sofa and bubble chairs make this lounge seem a little futuristic, and is simultaneously soothing and invigorating.

Finnair Lounge, Helsinki Airport, Finland

Finnair Lounge is known for its fabulous midnight buffet, perfect for those on their way to Asia. Marimekko tableware and Nordic design fill surroundings with a relaxing modern aesthetic.

Etihad’s Diamond First Class Lounge, Abu Dhabi International Airport, United Arab Emirates

Drop the kids off with their own personal nanny and head for the spa. You can relax and get a massage while the children enjoy the colorful playroom.

Lufthansa First Class Lounge, Frankfurt

Located in its own terminal, Lufthansa’s First Class Lounge offers concierge service, fine dining, showers and bathtubs (sometimes with Lufthansa’s coveted rubber duckies). After an over-the-top lounge experience, you will be driven to your plane in a Porche or Mercedes. Very James Bond.

Check our AirGuideAirports – Top 50 World Airport Maps displayed with popups, including POI search capability for the busiest airports in North America, Latin America & Caribbean, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Asia Pacific.

Source: www.airguideonline.com 

Austrian Airlines Begins Nonstop Service From Miami To Vienna

  

·         Inaugural flight departs today from Miami

·         Five weekly flights from Miami to Vienna

·         Austrian Star Alliance Terminal in Vienna: Short transfer times to 81 European destinations     

·         Chefs and authentic Viennese coffee house service on board

Austrian Airlines begins its new, nonstop service from Miami, Florida to Vienna, Austria. The airline will operate five weekly, nonstop flights, with a Boeing 777 aircraft, from Miami to Vienna. Austrian Airlines Chief Commercial Officer, Andreas Otto, personally greeted the passengers today on the occasion of the initial flight from Vienna to Miami, thus formally inaugurating this route: “The addition of Miami shows that we are significantly expanding our service from North America, and now offer a total of 27 weekly flights from six destinations in the USA and Canada in our winter flight schedule,” said Andreas Otto.

Austrian Star Alliance Terminal in Vienna: Short transfer times

Thanks to its central geographical location at the heart of Europe, the Austrian hub at Vienna International Airport is the ideal gateway between East and West. The airport’s minimum transfer time of 25 minutes is unique among the world’s hubs and is of special value to the passengers transferring with Austrian to 81 European destinations.

Chefs and original Viennese coffee house service on board

Business Class passengers on Austrian long-haul flights can indulge in gourmet menus created by Austrian and international chefs, and subsequently refined à la minute by a professional chef on board. Austrian also offers the first ‘Viennese coffee house’ above the clouds by serving a selection of Vienna’s ten most popular, specialty coffees, ranging from the Großer Brauner and ever-popular Wiener Melange, to specialties such as the Wiener Fiaker. Austrian Airlines is the only airline in the world to provide this unique service.

In addition to Miami, Austrian Airlines offers eight flights per week from the New York Metropolitan Area, non-stop to Vienna, in the current winter flight schedule. This includes four weekly flights each, from New York JFK and Newark, with a Boeing 767 aircraft. Moreover, Austrian Airlines offers five flights each week from Washington, DC with a Boeing 767, up to five weekly flights from Chicago and four from Toronto to the Austrian capital.

Flight service from Miami is offered on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Austrian Airlines will fly to Miami throughout the entire year. The flight duration from Miami to Vienna, a distance of 8,400 kilometers, is approximately 9 hrs 45 minutes. Flights can be booked at www.austrian.com, by telephone at +1-800-843-0002 or in a travel agency.     

route	flight number	flight days	departure – arrival (local time)
Miami – Vienna	OS098	Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays	17:00 – 08:45 (+1)
Vienna – Miami	OS097	Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays	09:55 – 15:20

The Best New Way to Fly Around The World

Star Alliance recently launched its newest booking tool, which allows passengers to travel around the world in premium economy on its 28 partner airlines.

An around-the-world trip by air is the kind of travel splurge many people reserve for their bucketlist, but often time and money restrictions cause to remain there.

But the Star Alliance, with its membership of 28 airlines, is aiming to make it easier and more affordable to circle the globe in style. Travelers can now build an itinerary crossing both the Atlantic and Pacific, flying every leg in Premium Economy rather than cramped in coach. (Of course, you can opt to fly in business or first class, but that may bring this kind of trip back to fantasy-only.)

A booking tool to enable this premium economy version is now live on Star Alliance's website. It was inspired, in part, by the growth in premium economy offerings throughout the industry, with more carriers opting to carve out cabins space for the roomier seats. A cross between coach and business class, it’s got more legroom, improved amenities, and more comfort overall. Lufthansa and Singapore, both members of the Star Alliance, have added premium economy classes within the past year. Other Star airlines that offer this class include Air Canada, Air China, Air New Zealand, ANA, EVA, LOT, SAS, Thai, and Turkish.

If you want to avoid coach at all costs, it’s possible—you’ll just have to do some careful planning. A Star Alliance spokesperson came up with the following itinerary: Chicago – Frankfurt – Copenhagen – Istanbul – Tokyo – San Francisco – Chicago, at a fare of around $7,000.

The rules for these fares are as follows: There are three levels of pricing, depending on how many miles you're logging, with the lowest fares for jaunts of 29,000 and the highest at 39,000 miles. (The above example is for the 29,000 mile zone.) In general, you must travel in one direction—east or west—although you may take some detours on a single continent. Both major oceans must be crossed, and stops lasting at least 24 hours have to be made in at least three cities—up to a maximum of 15. While you can’t change your itinerary once you’ve departed, you can change your dates without penalty. Regardless of the rules, the best part is the duration of the trip; it can be as few as seven days or as long as up to a full year.

Written by Barbara Peterson, www.cntraveler.com

Travelore News: Air China To Launch Beijing-Montreal Flights

BEIJING, China and MONTREAL, Canada - Air China and Air Canada said today they are preparing for the launch of non-stop flights between Beijing and Montreal that will create the first transpacific direct link between Asia and Montreal. The flights will be operated by Air China starting on September 29, 2015, initially three times a week, with Boeing 777-300ER aircraft and Air Canada placing its code on the flights for sale on a codeshare basis in a first phase.

In the second phase, subject to requisite approvals by the relevant competition authorities, Air Canada and Air China intend to form a comprehensive revenue sharing joint venture in respect of all flights between China and Canada, which would ensure the long-term sustainability of the new Beijing-Montreal service.

With the launch of the non-stop Beijing-Montreal service, the Star Alliance carriers will offer convenient connections and seamless transfers for customers to other cities in China, Canada and the United States via their hubs in Beijing and Montreal.

As previously announced, Air China and Air Canada signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in November 2014 in Beijing setting out the principles for an integrated revenue sharing joint venture. The MOU provides for an enhanced partnership on routes between China and Canada which is expected to stimulate traffic growth between the two countries and is subject to Air Canada and Air China making the necessary filings, obtaining competition and other regulatory approvals and finalizing documentation. The joint venture is expected to come into effect in the second half of 2015.

With the new Beijing-Montreal route, Air China will place its CA code on Air Canada flights between Montreal and select cities in Canada, subject to government approval.

Currently, Air China operates up to 11 flights per week between Beijing and Vancouver. Air Canada operates up to a total of 28 flights per week between Canada and China, from Toronto and Vancouver to and from Beijing and Shanghai.

Flight Information

Flight Departs Arrives Day of week
CA879 Beijing 13:00 Montreal 13:50 Tuesday, Friday, Sunday
CA880 Montreal 16:20 Beijing 18:00 Tuesday, Friday, Sunday

Travelore News: Singapore Airlines' New SilverKris Lounge Opens In Heathrow's T2

LONDON, England - Singapore Airlines has unveiled its brand new SilverKris Lounge at Heathrow, following the airline’s recent move into Heathrow’s Terminal 2.

Designed by renowned architectural and interior design firm ONG&ONG, the new Heathrow SilverKris Lounge for First and Business Class customers follows Singapore Airlines’ worldwide ‘home away from home’ concept, which is thoughtfully designed and modeled to provide a sense of ‘being home’. The new lounge will make London the airline’s third city to feature these designs, as part of a network-wide upgrade program.

Flexible Spaces

Located in T2B close to gate B36, Singapore Airlines’ SilverKris Lounge welcomes customers with a signature batik design screen; an element common across lounges featuring the new design and similar to those already seen in Sydney and Hong Kong.

With separate areas dedicated to First and Business Class customers, a total of 208 seats will be offered, complete with roving hosts to look after guests throughout their stay. In First Class, customers will be proactively provided with an at-seat service, including a choice of welcome drinks on arrival, together with a hot towel service similar to that experienced on board.

For the first time in London, customers will be able to enjoy flexible and dedicated spaces, from specific dining and living areas, to specially designed productivity pods, Singapore Airlines’ new signature armchairs and even private cove areas exclusive to London. Customers will have every opportunity to relax and feel at home whatever their preference.

As part of the design, a completely new Gallery space is also offered close to the entrance and accessible to both First and Business Class customers. Providing a residential feel including curated art pieces, the space offers selected self-service drinks and snacks, as well as a travel concierge facility for anyone needing some quick assistance with flights and seating. Additionally, the space will provide the focus for a range of cultural and calendar-linked events and showcases throughout the year – such as around Christmas or Lunar New Year.

Food & Drink

A familiar ‘taste of Singapore’ theme will feature in the new lounge, incorporating a selection of freshly cooked food using only fresh ingredients, as well as complementary wines, beers, spirits and champagne relevant to each lounge. The lounge menus are changed regularly to suit frequent fliers, incorporating authentic local culinary delights cooked freshly by on-site chefs, complementing the overall in-flight offerings.

First Class customers will benefit from both a self-service buffet area and an à la carte offering, where five different à la carte menus will operate throughout each day. At least two different menus will be available at any one time to ensure a wide selection of choices, including iconic dishes from Singapore such as Laksa and Hainanese Chicken Rice. These dishes will feature alongside traditional English fare, such as the afternoon tea menu, which is expected to become a firm favorite.

Business Class customers will enjoy a self-service buffet, still offering menu items cooked freshly on-site using only fresh ingredients and which will also provide variety across both Asian and Western dishes throughout the day. In a new feature, the Business Class lounge also includes a bar area, complete with a professional bar tender, where customers can enjoy a range of premium drinks, including freshly prepared cocktails. First Class guests will also have access to visit the bar area should they wish.

Wilson Yong, General Manager Singapore Airlines UK & Ireland, commented: “Our new SilverKris Lounge at Heathrow brings Ong&Ong’s ‘home away from home’ concept to the UK and Europe for the first time. We are already renowned for providing a warm, authentic and personalised service in the air and our new London lounge will help us deliver this in new ways on the ground too. We believe the familiar, homely environment will be hugely well received by our customers as we provide them with comfort and the feeling of being taken care of at every step of their journey”.

Stephen Wilkinson, Heathrow’s Property Director, said: ‘We’re extremely proud to welcome Singapore Airline’s SilverKris Lounge to Terminal 2. Our passengers expect a premium experience when they choose Heathrow and the SliverKris Lounge is a perfect complement to the Terminal 2 experience.’

The new SilverKris Lounge will be managed and operated by Singapore Airlines’ brand new partner, Sodexo; a company well regarded for the quality of its catering services and familiar with running airport lounges. Selected homeware displays are provided as part of a new partnership with UK company Culinary Concepts, where pieces complement and reflect the contemporary UK home to match the lounge’s location.

Lounge access is available for Business and First Class customers travelling with Singapore Airlines or other Star Alliance carrier, as well as eligible Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer and Star Alliance Gold customers and their guests.

Summary of services

First Class Lounge Business Class Lounge

Total Seating Capacity 50 seats 158 seats (inc. Gallery)
Opening Hours 0715 – 2200 daily
Gallery Available to both First and Business Class customers – a self-serve area close to the lounge entrance, also providing travel assistance. Seats 16
Living Room Yes – seats 15 Yes – seats 67
Dining Room Yes – seats 14 Yes – seats 28
High Counter No Yes – seats 21
Bar Access to Business Class bar Yes – seats 4
Tasting Room Yes – seats 7 No
Productivity Pods Yes – seats 6 Yes – seats 10
Hub Yes – seats 6 Yes – seats 12
Separate Meeting Area No Yes
Children’s Play Area No Yes
Signature Armchairs Yes Yes
Private Coves Yes – 2 No
A la carte dining Yes No
Roving Host Service Yes Yes

Menus Five à la carte menus available throughout the day – at least two running at any one time Buffet only
Buffet area Yes – food and drinks Yes – food and drinks
Showers Yes - 2 Yes - 4

Travelore News: Air China Adds New Flights To Its Beijing-Milan, Beijing-Paris Routes

As the largest carrier between China and Europe, Air China has long been committed to building a Europe-wide network and in 2015, the carrier will continue to add capacity to its China-Europe routes.

Starting March 29, Air China will increase its Beijing-Milan services to daily, and starting June 1, it will increase its Beijing-Paris services to twice daily. These new flights will further meet the growing market demand and offer more convenient flight options to passengers, making travel to and fromEurope much easier.

The new flight numbers on the Beijing-Milan route are CA949/50. The outbound flight departs Beijing at 13:30 and arrives in Milan at 19:00 local time; the return flight leavesMilan at 21:00 local time and arrives in Beijing at 13:30 the following day. The new flight numbers on the Beijing-Paris route are CA875/6. The outbound flight departsBeijing at 02:05 and arrives in Paris at 07:25 local time; the return flight leaves Paris at 14:10 local time and arrives in Beijing at 06:30 the following day.

The two routes are operated with A330-200 aircraft. Business Class is fitted with ergonomically designed full-flat seats that can meet the needs of the most discerning business travelers and all classes of service offer personal AVODs and power outlets, keeping passengers entertained for the duration of the flight. AirChina also offers seasonal healthy meals onboard and chauffeured transfers for VIP passengers on the ground. Excellent amenities and attentive services guarantee passengers a truly pleasant journey.

The newly added flights will further promote the economic ties and cultural exchanges betweenChina and Europe. Milan and Paris are widely recognized world capitals of fashion, with Milan the leader of the world's fashion industry and in 2015, all eyes will be on the Apennine Peninsula which will play host to the World Expo.
Paris, steeped in history, is always synonymous with romance, elegance and delicacy. Whether enjoying the sunshine beside the Eiffel Tower or taking a stroll on the 19th century gravel paths, Paris is a place where everyone wants to linger longer.

As a member carrier of Star Alliance, the world's largest airline alliance, Air China has been continuously enhancing its European schedule, with Europe now Air China's largest overseas market.

AirChina has increased the number of its routes between China and Europe to 19, offering over 100 flights per week. Passengers can fly easily and directly fromBeijing to 18 European cities includingLondon, Frankfurt, Rome, Moscow and Madrid and by utilizing the extensive network of the Star Alliance, passengers can easily get to 1,328 airports in 195 countries around the world.