SkyTeam is the second largest airline alliance in the world — behind Star Alliance — partnering fourteen carriers from four continents, with two pending members. The stated benefits and goals of the alliance are:
- Easy frequent flyer mile collection and redemption across carriers
- Reciprocal airport lounge access between carriers
- Guaranteed reservations for Elite Plus customers
- More available flights and easier connections between carriers
- More fare options
- Unified check-in for all carriers
- Consistent quality standards across carriers
- One reservation network for all members
- Unified Baggage System
SkyTeam calls itself the "first alliance built around customer needs."
http://www.skyteam.com/EN/faq/index.jsp#troi In 2005, SkyTeam was the world's best airline alliance, according to the readers of Global Traveler Magazine. In 2006, readers of Global Traveler Magazine once again rated SkyTeam as the best airline alliance. In 2007, Business Traveler Magazine named the SkyTeam to have the Best Airline Alliance Program. SkyTeam also operates a cargo alliance called SkyTeam Cargo with all current SkyTeam members except for Continental Cargo.
