The Oneworld global airline alliance is gearing up for a significant year in 2025, with two new airlines set to join as full members and the potential for additional branded lounges across its network. This marks another step forward for the alliance, which celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2024.
Fiji Airways Steps Up to Full Membership
Fiji Airways, currently a Oneworld Connect partner, is set to elevate its status to a full Oneworld member by late 2025. According to CEO Andre Viljoen, the airline’s transition reflects its desire to unlock the full benefits of membership, including access to Oneworld lounges for business class passengers and frequent flyers.
The South Pacific carrier, based at Nadi International Airport (NAN), serves 26 destinations across 15 countries, including key Oneworld hubs such as Sydney (SYD), Los Angeles (LAX), Hong Kong (HKG), and Tokyo (HND). Fiji Airways also plans to adopt the AAdvantage loyalty program, run by Oneworld founding member American Airlines, as its rewards scheme.
Oman Air Joins the Fold
Muscat-based Oman Air will officially join Oneworld on June 30, 2025, becoming the alliance’s 14th full member. The airline is focused on cautious growth, with two new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners joining its fleet and plans for a potential return to Singapore.
Oman Air’s inclusion further strengthens Oneworld’s Middle Eastern presence, building on its partnership with Qantas to offer expanded codeshare opportunities.
Hawaiian Airlines and Starlux: Potential Future Members
Hawaiian Airlines is anticipated to announce its intention to join Oneworld following its US$1.9 billion acquisition by Alaska Airlines, a current alliance member. The merger is expected to result in a dual-brand operation, with Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines maintaining their respective hubs in Honolulu and Seattle.
Taiwan’s Starlux Airlines is also a potential candidate for Oneworld membership. As a growing player in the competitive East Asian market, Starlux could leverage alliance membership to better compete with regional heavyweights like China Airlines and EVA Air, which are part of SkyTeam and Star Alliance, respectively.
TAP Air Portugal: A Possible Addition
Looking ahead to 2026, TAP Air Portugal may join Oneworld if the International Airlines Group (IAG) succeeds in acquiring the Lisbon-based carrier. TAP’s addition would further bolster the alliance’s network in Europe, subject to meeting Oneworld’s membership requirements.
Alternatives to Alliances
Not all airlines see alliances as the best fit. For instance, Riyadh Air, set to launch in mid-2025, is opting for bespoke partnerships instead. CEO Tony Douglas emphasises the value of tailored collaborations with carriers like Air China, Delta Air Lines, and Singapore Airlines, rather than joining a global alliance.
Similarly, Etihad Airways remains undecided about alliance membership, with its CEO stating it’s not a top priority.
The addition of Oman Air and Fiji Airways highlights Oneworld’s continued expansion, enhancing its network and benefits for travelers. With potential new members like Hawaiian Airlines and Starlux on the horizon, and TAP Air Portugal as a longer-term prospect, the alliance is poised to maintain its competitive edge in the global aviation landscape.
