Asiana Airlines to leave Star Alliance in December 2026

International

Alliance confirms customer benefits will remain in place during the transition as 14 member airlines continue serving Seoul

Asiana Airlines will officially leave Star Alliance on 16 December 2026, ending more than two decades of membership in the global airline alliance. Star Alliance and its member airlines have outlined a transition plan designed to ensure continuity for customers, including frequent flyer benefits and global connectivity.

Asiana joined Star Alliance in 2003 and has been one of the alliance's key carriers in Northeast Asia.

Customer benefits remain available during transition

Star Alliance confirmed that customers enrolled in any member airline's frequent flyer programme will continue to earn miles on Asiana-operated flights departing on or before 15 October 2026.

Members will also be able to redeem miles for Star Alliance award tickets and upgrades on Asiana flights completed by 16 December 2026, subject to the rules of their respective frequent flyer programmes.

Star Alliance Gold and Silver members will continue to receive alliance benefits, including priority services, until Asiana's departure. Gold members will also retain access to eligible Star Alliance lounges, including participating Asiana lounges, when travelling on the alliance network.

Strong network remains in Seoul

Following Asiana's exit, 14 Star Alliance member airlines will continue operating to and from Incheon International Airport. Together they currently offer more than 1,900 direct flights each month to 29 destinations worldwide.

From 17 December 2026, Star Alliance will comprise 25 member airlines, continuing to provide global multi-airline connectivity.

Lufthansa Group prepares for market transition

Lufthansa Group has already implemented measures to minimise disruption for customers. Existing bookings from September 2026 onwards will be reprotected on Korean Air where required.

The group is also strengthening its presence in the Korean market through expanded cooperation with Jeju Air and the development of an intermodal partnership with South Korea's national railway operator, Korail. The strategy also includes continued lounge access at Incheon Airport and improved domestic connections within South Korea.

Star Alliance thanked Asiana Airlines and its employees for their contribution to the alliance since joining in 2003 and said both organisations would continue working closely together to ensure a smooth transition for customers.