SkyTeam Celebrates 25 Years: An Alliance Redefining Future of Global Travel
SkyTeam marked its 25th anniversary on Sunday, June 22, 2025, solidifying its position as one of the most influential alliances in global aviation. Founded in 2000 by four airlines, it now boasts 18 member airlines connecting over 945 destinations across 145 countries. Far from resting on its laurels, the alliance is committed to digital transformation, continuous improvement of the customer experience, and advancing sustainable practices as the cornerstones of its future.
A Customer-Centric Experience
From the beginning, SkyTeam has placed passengers at the heart of its strategy. This is evident in its 235 million loyalty program members, who enjoy shared benefits and mutual recognition across the alliance. Key services include:
- Co-located lounges for enhanced comfort.
- SkyPriority at over 900 airports, pioneering standardized global priority services.
- Seamless interline transfers.
- Earning and redeeming miles across member airlines.
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Innovation for Simpler Travel
In response to evolving traveler demands, SkyTeam has developed technological tools to streamline every step of the journey. Highlights include:
- SkyTeam Digital Spine, enabling check-in for multi-airline itineraries via the user’s preferred app or website.
- The award-winning Carry-On Calculator, helping passengers plan their hand luggage with clarity and ease.
- Loyalty programs like SkyTeam Elite and Elite Plus, offering reciprocal benefits across all member airlines.
- Access to over 750 VIP lounges for eligible customers, including exclusive SkyTeam-branded spaces in key cities like Dubai, Santiago, Sydney, and Vancouver.
Commitment to Sustainability and Equity
SkyTeam also leads in social and environmental initiatives, including:
- The Aviation Challenge: A pioneering program uniting over 27 industry stakeholders to accelerate sustainable aviation.
- Full support for IATA’s 25by2025 campaign, aimed at addressing gender inequality in the aviation industry.
- The first alliance to sign a Declaration Against Human Trafficking, demonstrating a firm commitment to human rights.
A Digital Infrastructure for the Future
The addition of new members like Virgin Atlantic and SAS marks the beginning of an even more ambitious chapter. SkyTeam is building a fully integrated travel ecosystem, featuring:
- Intermodal connections with rail operators like Eurostar and Trenitalia, seamlessly integrating air and rail travel.
- Technological advancements such as real-time baggage tracking and full loyalty program interoperability.
Looking Ahead
For Patrick Roux, CEO of SkyTeam, this anniversary is not an endpoint but a springboard for the evolution of global travel: “This 25-year milestone isn’t just about reflecting on our achievements. It’s a catalyst for the future. Together with our members, we’re building the next generation of travel experiences—smarter, more integrated, and more responsible; a connected ecosystem that keeps the customer at the center, no matter how many airlines are involved.”
SkyTeam isn’t just celebrating its past—it’s doubling down on a future where collaboration, technology, and sustainability deliver an unparalleled travel experience.
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Plataforma Informativa de Aviación Comercial con 13 años de trayectoria.