Thai Smile becomes second Connecting Partner of Star Alliance

Friday, 28 February 2020 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Thai Smile has become the second Connecting Partner of Star Alliance.

Star Alliance first introduced the Connecting Partner Model in May 2017, allowing airlines to connect to the Star Alliance network without becoming a member airline. The collaboration is the first of its kind in Thailand.

Thai Smile offers more than 396 weekly flights to 32 destinations in nine countries and regions. As a Connecting Partner, the airline will extend the Star Alliance network by ten new destinations.

Now, passengers travelling on any itinerary, which includes a transfer between certain Star Alliance member airlines and Thai Smile on a single booking, will be able to check themselves and their baggage through to the final destination. In addition, customers who hold Star Alliance Silver and Gold status in any Star Alliance member airline’s frequent flyer program will enjoy a tailored set of privileges.

Currently, such privileges are available on eligible connections between Thai Smile Airways and Austrian, Lufthansa, SWISS, and Thai Airways International.

Shanghai-based Juneyao Airlines was the first airline to become a Connecting Partner in May 2017.

Thai Smile Airways CEO Charita Leelayudth said, “We are delighted to become a Connecting Partner. It brings tremendous value to our customers and the region we serve and is a strategic step that positions Thai Smile Airways as an important regional player. We are committed to delivering exceptional travel experiences to new generations of travellers at affordable prices with seamless connections to our parent company Thai Airways International, a Star Alliance member. Our focus remains on strengthening Thai Airways’ route network for the highest cost-efficiency and competitiveness.”

Star Alliance CEO Jeffrey Goh, said, “Our Connecting Partner model was introduced three years ago to offer airlines an attractive way to connect to our global alliance network without requiring full membership, and we are continuing to expand the model to provide customers with more travel options. I am pleased to welcome Thai Smile Airways as a Star Alliance Connecting Partner, from which customers will benefit through greater connectivity and enhanced services in Asia.”