Air France-KLM plans to increase its stake in Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) from 19.9% to 60.5%, aiming to fully integrate SAS into its group by 2026, driven by SAS's improved performance and strategic restructuring, with regulatory approval expected to be a key step.
IndiGo, Delta, Air France-KLM, and Virgin Atlantic announced a strategic partnership to enhance connectivity between India, Europe, and North America, with India serving as the central hub. The alliance aims to offer more travel options, streamline schedules, and expand international reach, including new routes and codeshare agreements, amid a decline in transatlantic travel and India's growing aviation market.
IndiGo has announced a strategic partnership with Delta, Air France-KLM, and Virgin Atlantic to connect India with Europe and North America, aiming to expand its global reach and improve international travel options, with plans for deeper collaboration across commercial and operational areas.
Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) plans to leave the Star Alliance and join the SkyTeam alliance in a new tie-up with Air France-KLM. The move, pending regulatory and shareholder approvals, comes after Air France-KLM won a bid to provide exit financing for SAS to emerge from bankruptcy protection. If approved, Air France-KLM would hold a noncontrolling 19.99% stake in SAS, allowing the airlines to coordinate schedules across multiple hubs. This decision reflects the ongoing consolidation in the European airline industry, with Lufthansa Group recently acquiring a stake in ITA Airways and speculation surrounding the potential sale of TAP Air Portugal.
Air France-KLM has placed an order for up to 90 Airbus A350s, including a firm order for 50 jets and options for 40 additional aircraft. The A350s will replace older aircraft in the carrier's fleet, contributing to a reduction in emissions and noise. The allocation of the aircraft between Air France and KLM, as well as the breakdown between A350-900s and A350-1000s, is yet to be determined. The A350 is praised for its performance and sustainability features.