Asiana Airlines to Leave Star Alliance in December 2026

Star Alliance Prepares for Asiana Airlines Departure

Asiana Airlines will officially leave Star Alliance on 16 December 2026, ending more than two decades of membership in the global airline alliance.

The Seoul-based carrier joined Star Alliance in 2003 and has since been part of the alliance’s international network, providing connectivity for passengers travelling across Asia and beyond.

Star Alliance and Asiana Airlines have confirmed they will work together throughout the transition period to minimize disruption for customers. Passengers enrolled in Star Alliance member airline frequent flyer programmes will continue to earn miles on eligible Asiana-operated flights departing on or before 15 October 2026.

Customers will also be able to redeem miles for Star Alliance award tickets and upgrades on Asiana Airlines for travel completed on or before 16 December 2026, subject to the terms and conditions of their respective loyalty programmes.

Star Alliance Gold and Silver members will continue to receive alliance benefits, including priority services, until Asiana’s departure date. Gold members will also retain lounge access across eligible Star Alliance lounges, including participating Asiana Airlines lounges.

Following Asiana Airlines’ exit, Star Alliance will continue to maintain a significant presence at Incheon International Airport through its remaining member carriers. Fourteen Star Alliance airlines will continue serving the airport, including Air Canada, Air China, Air India, Air New Zealand, EVA Air, Ethiopian Airlines, Lufthansa, LOT Polish Airlines, SWISS, Singapore Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, Thai Airways, Turkish Airlines and United Airlines.

Together, these airlines currently operate more than 1,900 direct flights each month from Incheon International Airport to 29 destinations worldwide.

From 17 December 2026, Star Alliance will consist of 25 member airlines, continuing to offer global connectivity through its network.

In preparation for the transition, Lufthansa Group has already begun implementing measures to support affected customers. Existing bookings scheduled from September 2026 onwards are being reprotected on Korean Air where necessary.

The group is also strengthening its partnerships in South Korea, including expanded cooperation with Jeju Air and the development of an intermodal partnership with the national rail operator, Korail. These initiatives are intended to support onward domestic connectivity for travellers arriving in Seoul.

The departure marks a significant change for both Asiana Airlines and Star Alliance, as the airline prepares for its next phase while the alliance continues its operations with its remaining member carriers.

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