Virgin Atlantic is to become the first UK airline to join the SkyTeam global airline alliance in a move it said would boost its transatlantic services.
Customers will be able to book across 1,000 global destinations in over 170 countries, with SkyTeam member flights bookable on a single ticket, meaning checking in with baggage will be needed "just once" through to final destination, Virgin said.
The carrier joined the alliance after its "successful transatlantic joint venture with Delta and Air France-KLM", both members of SkyTeam alongside airlines such as Aeromexico and China Eastern.
“We want to reward those who choose to fly with Virgin Atlantic and our Flying Club members deserve the very best loyalty proposition. Our SkyTeam membership offers this through a global network of maximised reward opportunities, alongside enhanced services on the ground and in the skies," said Shai Weiss, chief executive of Virgin Atlantic.
“The UK is a key market for SkyTeam and with Virgin Atlantic on board, customers can look forward to more opportunities to earn and redeem miles as they fly, enjoying the iconic travel experience that makes our newest member a globally loved airline," said Patrick Roux, SkyTeam chief executive and managing director.