New Frankfurt Airport Lounge. Photo: SkyTeam The "global airline alliance dedicated to transforming the future of travel", SkyTeam, marked its 25th anniversary on November 19 with a Paris gathering that brought together airline leaders, partners, and staff from across the alliance. The event looked back at how the group has grown over the past quarter century and offered a first look at what’s coming next, including a new SkyTeam Lounge planned for Frankfurt Airport and updates on ongoing air-rail projects with Trenitalia and Eurostar.
The evening included a Fireside Chat with SkyTeam CEO Patrick Roux and SkyTeam Chairman and Aeromexico CEO Andrés Conesa, along with dinner and a performance by the contemporary dance group Oxygen.
Reflecting on the milestone, Roux said: “Over the past 25 years, SkyTeam has been defined by collaboration and our vision to be the world's most integrated airline alliance. This anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate the people and organizations who have shaped our journey, our member airlines, industry partners and dedicated team. As we reflect on our achievements and set our sights on the future, one thing remains constant: our commitment to travelers. SkyTeam’s greatest strength is the power of collaboration, and we'll continue building on that to deliver even better experiences for our customers in the next chapter."
Looking ahead, SkyTeam emphasized that digital improvements remain central to its plans for evolution.
Over the years, the group has introduced several tech features meant to significantly ease multi-airline travel. One of its highlights was the 2022 launch of a seamless check-in tool that allows travelers to check in for multi-carrier trips via an app or website. The tool is powered by the alliance’s Digital Spine system and has been used by millions of passengers. The alliance plans to see the technology adopted by all member airlines.
New lounge a Frankfurt Airport. Photo: SkyTeamAirports continue to play a major role in SkyTeam’s identity, especially through its lounge offerings. The alliance now gives eligible customers access to more than 750 lounges worldwide, including its own branded spaces in Dubai, Santiago, Sydney, and Vancouver.
The newly announced lounge will open in April 2026 in Frankfurt Airport’s Terminal 3. Operated by Global Lounge Network, the 550-square-meter space will feature panoramic airport views, showers, soundproof, quiet booths, a relaxation zone, and a VIP area.
The lounge hosted in the non-Schengen international zone will also provide modern-day design elements inspired by nature, high-speed Wi-Fi, and "freshly prepared local and international dishes, desserts, and a full-service bar".
The lounge will serve eligible passengers flying with China Airlines, China Eastern, Delta, Korean Air, Middle East Airlines, Saudia, and Vietnam Airlines.
SkyTeam is also expanding beyond air travel. Its partnerships with Trenitalia and Eurostar continue to move forward, with both MOUs renewed this year. A proof-of-concept between Air Europa and Trenitalia has wrapped up and will move into production, with a customer-ready product expected in 2026. Vietnam Airlines and Eurostar are working on a similar project, which should complete its technical phase in early 2026.