Everything You Need to Know About the SkyTeam Alliance, From Member Airlines to Loyalty Perks

Here's everything frequent fliers should know about the SkyTeam alliance, including member airlines, benefits, and more.

Like Oneworld and Star Alliance, the SkyTeam alliance was formed for the benefit of both travelers and air carriers. With alliances, airlines are able to share resources and create a more seamless travel experience by combining schedules. Travelers benefit from the different routes and fares offered by each member airline, as well as coordinated frequent flier programs, so they can earn miles regardless of which member airline they fly. Here’s what you need to know about the SkyTeam alliance.

What to Know About the SkyTeam Alliance

Founded in June 2000 by Aeroméxico, Air France, Delta Air Lines, and Korean Air, SkyTeam is the newest major airline alliance and now includes 19 member airlines. With more than 10,000 daily departures to nearly 1,100 destinations in over 184 countries, SkyTeam members fly over 342 million passengers every year. This global network makes it possible for travelers to seamlessly plan trips that involve more than one airline and earn or redeem frequent flier miles as they go.

Delta Air Lines, consistently recognized for its excellence in customer service and operational performance, is the largest of the member airlines, with its headquarters and main hub in Atlanta, Georgia.

SkyTeam Member Airlines

Members of SkyTeam include Aerolíneas Argentinas, Aeroméxico, Air Europa, Air France, China Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, Czech Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Garuda Indonesia, ITA Airways, Kenya Airways, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Korean Air, Middle East Airlines, Saudia, TAROM, Vietnam Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, and Xiamen Airlines.

Benefits for SkyTeam Alliance Members

The SkyTeam alliance makes it possible for airlines to offer more flight options to destinations around the world, giving travelers the ability to compare schedules, fares, and classes of service. That means luxury travelers can scope out the best first-class seats (and budget travelers can find the least expensive options) across several airlines while searching for their ideal flight. For example, suppose you’re searching for a flight from Los Angeles to Paris. On the Delta Air Lines website, you’ll see nonstop flights operated by Air France, as well as Delta-operated flights connecting through Atlanta, New York City, Boston, and Seattle. For a trip to Hanoi, Vietnam, options on Delta’s website include flights by Korean Air and Vietnam Airlines, as well as Delta.

To enjoy SkyTeam’s frequent flier perks, you can join one of its member airlines’ loyalty programs. Choose the one offered by the airline that you fly most often, and miles on qualifying SkyTeam flights will be credited to your account. You can redeem miles for any SkyTeam-operated flight worldwide with one reservation— just search and book through your chosen frequent flier program.

All those SkyTeam flights can help you earn elite status with the alliance, too. Sky Priority includes special benefits offered to SkyTeam Elite and SkyTeam Elite Plus members, regardless of class of travel. At more than 970 airports worldwide, these travelers can take advantage of Sky Priority benefits including priority check in and boarding, exclusive security and immigration lines, and more. Travelers can verify their Sky Priority status by checking with their loyalty program. For example, if you have Delta Air Lines Silver Medallion status, you’re eligible for SkyTeam Elite status. Gold Medallion, Delta’s next level, takes members to SkyTeam Elite Plus with additional advantages. Fliers with SkyTeam status can also enjoy lounge access, increased baggage allowances, and more, depending on status level and flights.

Along with SkyTeam Elite Plus members, first and business-class customers also have access to the SkyTeam lounges. Use the Lounge Finder to learn about amenities and specific entry requirements.

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