Global Analysis

Who Wants to Join an Airline Alliance?

Gordon Smith photo
Gordon Smith and Jay Shabat
the front end of a plane pointing from left to right.

Photo Credit: An Airbus A319 on Oneworld Alliance livery, operated by Finnair, taxiing at Helsinki Airport. Adobe Stock / Marko Hannula

Skift Take

In this week's show, Gordon and Jay look at the oneworld alliance and its latest member, Oman Air. Then they ask the big question: are airline alliances worth it?

In this episode of the Airline Weekly Lounge, hosts Gordon Smith and Jay Shabat discuss the latest developments in the oneworld Alliance, including the recent addition of Oman Air as its 15th member. They explore the implications of this expansion, the challenges of airline alliances in covering global markets, and the potential for future memberships, particularly in regions like India and Latin America. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of airline partnerships, the role of IATA in the industry, and the current state of air traffic demand globally.

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Takeaways

  • Oman Air has joined the oneworld Alliance as its 15th member.
  • There is a debate on the depth versus breadth of airline alliances.
  • Oneworld lacks member-based representation in Sub-Saharan Africa and South America.
  • IndiGo is not prioritizing alliance membership currently.
  • Hawaiian Airlines is expected to join oneworld in 2026.
  • Southwest has joined IATA but remains independent from alliances.
  • The domestic US market is currently shrinking, contrasting with global growth.