SkyTeam

Overview

SkyTeam is one of the world's three major airline alliances, founded in June 2000 as the last of the three global alliances to form, following both Star Alliance and Oneworld. The alliance carried roughly 624 million passengers in 2024, the second-largest passenger count among the three major alliances, and as of May 2025 consists of 18 active member carriers. SkyTeam also operates a separate cargo alliance called SkyTeam Cargo, partnering with seven carriers, all of which are also SkyTeam passenger alliance members. Like its rival alliances, SkyTeam provides member airlines with coordinated codeshare networks, shared frequent-flyer program benefits, and joint lounge access, letting passengers connect more seamlessly across the combined route networks of all member carriers.

History

SkyTeam was founded in June 2000, becoming the third and final major global airline alliance to form, following both Star Alliance in 1997 and Oneworld in 1999. Founding members including Air France, Delta Air Lines, Aeromexico, and Korean Air sought to build a coordinated global network competitive with the two earlier-established alliances. SkyTeam expanded its membership significantly through the 2000s and 2010s, eventually growing to include 18 active carriers by 2025, along with a dedicated cargo alliance partnering with several member airlines. The alliance has continued refining its passenger benefits and network coordination since its founding, carrying over 600 million passengers annually and remaining one of the three dominant global airline alliances alongside Star Alliance and Oneworld.

Design & Specifications

SkyTeam coordinates codeshare agreements, shared lounges, and a dedicated cargo alliance across its member airlines' networks.

Operations

Member airlines coordinate schedules and passenger benefits through SkyTeam's alliance structure, extending each carrier's effective route network.

See also

• Star Alliance
• Oneworld

References

• Wikipedia: SkyTeam