8. Network Benefits 2003 1999 2000 1997 May 14 Air Canada, Lufthansa, SAS, Thai Airways International and United Airlines launch the Star Alliance network. October VARIG Brazilian Airlines joins the Star Alliance network. March Ansett Australia and Air New Zealand join the Star Aliance network. October With an official Launch Event in Tokyo, ANA joins the Star Alliance network and Singapore Airlines officially gains Observer Status to join the Alliance. March The Austrian Airlines Group, comprising Austrian Airlines, Lauda Air and Tyrolean Airways becomes the 10th member of Star Alliance. April Singapore Airlines joins Star Alliance. July British Midland and Mexicana join Star Alliance. March Asiana Airlines joins the Star Alliance network. April Spanair joins the Star Alliance network. October LOT joins Star Alliance. May – US Airways application approved
9. The Star Alliance Network continues to grow. Network Benefits Destinations 55 Fleet 50 longhaul 5 shorthaul 45 Annual Passengers 2.8m Annual pax revenue $553m Employees 4,100