SAS Shifts from Star Alliance to SkyTeam: Impact on Frequent Flyers

Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), Scandinavia's largest airline, is making a significant transition from Star Alliance to SkyTeam by the end of August, a move that heralds new possibilities and considerations for its frequent flyers. This strategic pivot, following Air France-KLM's investment in SAS, ushers in a period of transition for passengers accustomed to Star Alliance benefits.

Immediate Changes for EuroBonus Members

For now, SAS assures that its EuroBonus program remains intact, with members able to accrue and redeem points on Star Alliance partners until the airline formally exits the alliance at the end of August 2024. This means that, for the time being, elite status benefits, including Silver or Gold perks on Star Alliance flights, are maintained. Moreover, flights booked on Star Alliance airlines before September can still be redeemed for travel dates extending beyond SAS's departure from the alliance, ensuring continuity for current booking plans.

Transition Period Benefits

As SAS transitions to SkyTeam on September 1st, EuroBonus members will gain the ability to redeem points across SkyTeam carriers. This expansion of network means enhanced travel options and benefits aligned with SkyTeam's offerings, such as extra baggage allowances and priority services for Silver members, and additional perks like lounge access for Gold and Diamond members. However, the full extent of partnerships within SkyTeam might take some time to establish, suggesting a gradual phasing in of benefits across the alliance's member airlines.

Future Considerations

A potential future development could see SAS EuroBonus members being integrated into the Flying Blue program, one of Europe's leading loyalty schemes, shared by Air France, KLM, and Transavia. While such a merger is speculative and contingent on regulatory approval—especially if Air France-KLM's stake in SAS exceeds 50%—it opens up the discussion about the long-term vision for SAS's loyalty program and its alignment with one of the aviation sector's most extensive networks.

This shift from Star Alliance to SkyTeam represents more than a change of affiliations for SAS; it signifies a strategic realignment with significant implications for its frequent flyers. While the immediate impact is mitigated by continued access to Star Alliance benefits, the move to SkyTeam promises expanded options and potentially richer rewards for SAS's loyal passengers. As the details of this transition unfold, frequent flyers will undoubtedly watch closely to understand how these changes will shape their travel experiences and loyalty benefits in the years to come.