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SkyTeam is working with China Southern to minimise network disruption in the wake of the Chinese carrier’s decision to quit the alliance and strengthen ties with American Airlines.

SkyTeam said China Southern’s decision reflected its “strategic development, the changing trends of the global aviation industry and the evolution of alliances”.

A SkyTeam statement said it was working closely with China Southern “to ensure a seamless transition for all customers and partners. That process will run throughout 2019 and will complete by the year-end”.http://www.germany.travel/en/index.html

American last year concluded a USD 200 billion deal with China Southern which included a 2.76% stake in the Chinese airline. Earlier this year, the two carriers launched a reciprocal codeshare pact.

American described China Southern’s decision to leave SkyTeam as “a great opportunity for us to continue to expand our relationship with the largest airline in China.

“With the opening of Beijing Daxing International Airport in 2019 and the ability to cooperate fully with China Southern, we are excited about our future in the Chinese market.”

Other SkyTeam members include: Aeroflot, Aerolineas Argentinas, AeroMexico, AirEuropa, China Airlines, China Eastern, Czech Airlines, Delta, Garuda Indonesia, Kenya Airways, KLM, Korean Air, MEA, Saudia, Tarom, Vietnam Airlines and XiamenAir.

Written by Peter Needham