SAS Joins SkyTeam, Leaves Star Alliance:
On September 1, 2024, SAS officially exited Star Alliance and joined SkyTeam. This shift means SAS EuroBonus Elite Members will now receive benefits on SkyTeam carriers. However, those deeply connected to the Star Alliance network might feel the impact.
Star Alliance’s Response - Status Match Offer:
In response, Star Alliance has launched an extensive status match program for SAS EuroBonus members. Partnering with StatusMatch, Star Alliance is offering status matches across 13 member airlines. Eligible SAS EuroBonus Elite Members can choose one of these airlines to maintain their elite status within Star Alliance.
Participating Airlines:
Here’s the list of airlines offering the status match:
- Air Canada – Aeroplan
- Air China – PhoenixMiles
- Air India – Flying Returns
- Austrian – Miles & More
- Brussels Airlines – Miles & More
- Ethiopian Airlines – ShebaMiles
- Lufthansa – Miles & More
- South African Airways – SAA Voyager
- SWISS – Miles & More
- TAP Air Portugal – TAP Miles&Go
- Thai Airways – Royal Orchid Plus
- Turkish Airlines – Miles&Smiles
- United Airlines – MileagePlus
How It Works:
You can apply for the status match until November 30, 2024. Each airline has specific criteria to retain the matched status beyond the trial period, ranging from flight segments to earned miles.
Examples of Retention Requirements:
- Air Canada Aeroplan: Status valid through December 2025.
- Air China PhoenixMiles: 90-day trial with challenges to extend.
- Air India Flying Returns: Status valid for 6 months; challenges for a 12-month extension.
- Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles: 4-month trial with flight requirements to extend status.
Ready to keep your Star Alliance status?
Take advantage of this opportunity and choose your preferred airline to secure your elite status. Click Status Match to begin your journey.