Airline alliance

An airline alliance is a partnership between two or more airlines to expand routes, share resources, and improve travel experience for passengers who benefit from lower prices, access to multiple destinations, and more convenient airway connections. 

The three main global airline alliances operating in the air travel industry and accounting for about 43 percent of total seating capacity are Star Alliance, SkyTeam, and Oneworld.

While participating airlines develop mutually agreed upon commercial policies, coordinate scheduled flights, and ensure high quality of services and security standards, they maintain a high degree of financial independence and preserve brand identity. 

Most alliance members enter into codeshare agreements. They also allow joint earning and redemption of points/miles accumulated through loyalty programs of other carriers.Other forms of partnerships in the aviation industry are interlining, codesharing, and joint ventures.