The addition of China Southern widens SkyTeam’s global hub network to include the new Baiyn International Airport in Guangzhou. It also is the first Chinese carrier to operate its own terminal at Beijing’s Capital International Airport. China Southern has an extensive intra-Asian network that will add strength to the alliance.

“We are excited to welcome China Southern Airlines, one of Asia’s largest and leading carriers, into our network,” says Leo van Wijk, chairman of SkyTeam’s Governing Board. “This move allows us to offer our customers unparalleled access to the markets they want to reach. Offering the highest flight frequencies in China, China Southern’s membership strengthens the alliance’s position in serving the world’s fastest growing markets.”

Now including China Southern, SkyTeam partners are Aeroflot, Aeroméxico, Air France, Alitalia, Continental Airlines, Czech Airlines, Delta Air Lines, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Korean Air and Northwest Airlines, and three Associate Airlines: Air Europa (Spain), Copa Airlines (Panama) and Kenya Airways.