The giant Star Alliance has gained 10 additional destinations after THAI Smile officially became its second connecting partner on February 25.
Star introduced the connecting partner concept in 2017 to allow airlines to connect with its network without the expense of becoming a full member. Shanghai-based Juneyao Airlines was the first airline to join the scheme in May of that year.
THAI Smile operates 396 flights to 23 destinations in nine countries and regions and is a regional full-service subsidiary of Thai Airways International.
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Based at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) and operating a fleet of 20 narrow-body aircraft, the airline is aimed at short-haul passengers looking for quality services at affordable prices.
Its partnership with the giant alliance means THAI Smile passengers will enjoy advantages such as single-ticket bookings, baggage transfer and through check-in with Star airlines.
Star premium tier frequent flyers from alliance member airlines will enjoy “tailored” privileges on THAI Smile.
The collaboration is the first of its kind for Thailand and Thai Airways International president Sumeth Damrongchaitham said the move would elevate THAI Smile’s competitiveness and enhance the reputation of Thai airlines in the international market.
“With its service excellence and highly efficient personnel, THAI Smile Airways is a subsidiary airline that makes us proud and helps us stay competitive in the international market,’’ he said.
“As for our future plans, THAI Smile Airways will be further developed as a leading regional airline that flies domestically in THAI’s stead and as a networking flight operator.”
Star Alliance chief executive Jeffrey Goh said Star was continuing to expand the Connecting Partner model to provide customers with more travel options.
“I am pleased to welcome THAI Smile Airways today as a Star Alliance Connecting Partner, from which customers will benefit through greater connectivity and enhanced services in Asia,” he said.
Overall, the Star Alliance network currently offers more than 19,000 daily flights to over 1,300 airports in 195 countries.
Along with Thai Smile’s international sister airline, its membership includes carriers such as Lufthansa, United Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Air China, Air Canada, ANA, Asiana and Air New Zealand.
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