Fri Sep 20 08:15:20 UTC 2024: ## oneworld® Alliance Poised for Growth with New Airline Additions

The oneworld® alliance is set to expand significantly in the coming years, with three airlines confirmed to join and one more under consideration. This expansion would see the alliance grow from its current 13 members to potentially 17, rivaling the size of the SkyTeam alliance.

**New Members on the Horizon:**

* **Oman Air:** The Omani carrier, known for its premium cabins and lounges, will officially join oneworld® in late 2024. It was sponsored by Qatar Airways, with whom it already enjoys a close partnership.
* **Fiji Airways:** Fiji’s national airline will become the alliance’s 15th full member in 2025. Currently a oneworld® connect partner, Fiji Airways has already established strong connections with other member airlines, ensuring a smooth integration.
* **STARLUX Airlines:** The Taiwanese carrier, known for its growing network across Asia, is aiming for oneworld® membership in 2026. This move would bolster the alliance’s presence in the region, although a potential veto from Cathay Pacific due to the geographical proximity of Taiwan and Hong Kong remains a possibility.
* **Alaska Airlines:** Following its acquisition of Virgin America, Alaska Airlines is looking to join oneworld® in 2026, leveraging its existing partnership with STARLUX.

**Expanding Network and Benefits:**

The addition of these new members will expand oneworld®’s reach, offering passengers a wider range of destinations and connections. Members will also benefit from increased loyalty program perks, including more miles and lounge access.

**Challenges and Potential Veto:**

While the expansion is positive, the alliance faces the potential for a veto from its founding members. Cathay Pacific, in particular, may be hesitant to welcome STARLUX, given the existing political tensions between Taiwan and Hong Kong.

The oneworld® alliance is clearly looking to strengthen its position in the global aviation landscape. With these new additions, the alliance will become a more formidable force, offering passengers a wider range of destinations and benefits. The future of the alliance looks bright, although challenges and potential vetoes from existing members may slow down the process.

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