SkyTeam May Revise Lounge Access Policy as It Welcomes SAS
SkyTeam, poised to welcome its 20th member, SAS, is reconsidering its international-only lounge access policy to attract more travelers. This move comes as SAS transitions from Star Alliance, highlighting a potential shift in SkyTeam’s approach to align with more generous lounge access policies of its rivals.
Image Source: SkyTeam
SkyTeam is on the brink of a significant policy change as it prepares to welcome SAS, a founding member of Star Alliance, into its fold this September. The alliance, known for its international-only lounge access policy, is now contemplating offering lounge access for domestic flights, a benefit already provided by its rivals, oneworld and Star Alliance.
SkyTeam CEO Patrick Roux confirmed this review, emphasizing the need to enhance loyalty and attract more travelers. “We are aware of our current policy’s limitations and are actively working on this,” Roux stated during the IATA AGM in Dubai. This review is timely, considering the recent developments with SAS.
SAS CEO Anko van der Werff expressed excitement about the move to SkyTeam, despite the airline’s long history with Star Alliance. “We have been proud founders of Star Alliance, but this change is monumental and promising for our future with SkyTeam,” van der Werff remarked.
The shift raises questions about how SAS will adapt to SkyTeam’s lounge policies, especially since Star Alliance offers more generous access rules. Roux assured that SAS would follow SkyTeam’s policies, hinting at potential changes to align with competitors.
SkyTeam’s decision on lounge access could significantly impact its competitive stance. As SAS officially joins on September 1, 2024, all eyes will be on SkyTeam to see if it revises its lounge access policy to attract and retain more loyal travelers.
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