Asiana Airlines, which has been incorporated as a subsidiary of Korean Air, is expected to withdraw from the airline alliance Star Alliance soon, increasing interest in Asiana Airlines mileage. The information regarding Asiana Airlines mileage has been organized in a Q&A format.
─What will happen to the mileage if it merges with Korean Air?
“For the next two years, Asiana Airlines will be operated as a subsidiary of Korean Air. Until 2026, Asiana Airlines mileage, known as 'Asiana Club', will be operated independently. When the integrated Korean Air is launched two years later, Asiana Airlines mileage will be merged into Korean Air's SkyPass.”
─Where can Asiana Airlines mileage currently be used?
“The most basic use of mileage is for issuing flight tickets. A promotion is being conducted allowing the use of mileage for 96 Gimpo-Jeju flights until the 31st of this month.
Mileage can also be used for seat upgrades, excess baggage, lounge access, unaccompanied minor services for teenagers traveling alone without a guardian, pets, and extra fee seat services. There is also the OZ Mile Shop where various partnership products can be purchased, but most items are currently out of stock.
It is also possible to use flights from Star Alliance, to which Asiana Airlines belongs. Even in destinations where Asiana Airlines does not operate, travelers can connect through partner airlines in the alliance. There are 25 airlines in Star Alliance, including Germany's Lufthansa, United Airlines from the United States, Thai Airways, and Japan's All Nippon Airways.”
─What will change if it withdraws from Star Alliance?
“It will no longer be possible to purchase tickets for Star Alliance member airlines using Asiana Airlines mileage. While the specific withdrawal schedule has not yet been determined, it is expected that the process will occur soon. If Asiana Airlines, which specializes in the Incheon hub, exits the alliance, it could complicate transfer schedules at Incheon International Airport.”
─Why is it withdrawing from the airline alliance before merging with Korean Air?
“The airline industry applies 'economies of scale'. Operating more flights reduces costs. If the airline alliance of the acquiring company differs from that of the acquired company, barriers will arise regarding mileage usage coordination between the two airlines, minimum connection times, and building hub airport networks. Choosing a single airline alliance is a better strategy.”
─Can tickets already purchased for Star Alliance airlines still be used after withdrawal?
“Yes, it is possible. Asiana Airlines ticket reservations can be made for up to 361 days from the date of inquiry. Tickets booked close to the flight date are difficult to obtain with mileage. Planning a year in advance increases the chance of success.
Tickets for Star Alliance member airlines can also be issued in advance. They can be used within the validity period. However, it is important to note that the boarding deadlines for tickets vary by airline. Star Alliance mileage ticket reservations can only be made on a PC. To issue the necessary ticket, visit the Asiana Airlines website, go to Asiana Club → Mileage Use → Star Alliance/Partner Airlines → Star Alliance Mileage Ticket Reservation.
─What is the mileage integration ratio with Korean Air?
“The exact mileage integration ratio between Korean Air and Asiana Airlines has not been determined. Korean Air plans to report its mileage integration policy to the Fair Trade Commission in the first half of next year. The commission has stipulated that changes cannot be made to the detriment of consumers compared to discussions that began in late 2019, but the industry views that a one-to-one conversion of the two airlines' mileage is unlikely. For partnership cards that accumulate airline mileage based on credit card usage, Korean Air accumulates 1 mile per 1,500 won, while Asiana Airlines accumulates 1 mile per 1,000 won. The two airlines are expected to determine the conversion ratio with the help of a professional consulting firm.”
─How much mileage is scheduled to expire each year?
“The mileage set to expire each year is not disclosed. As of the end of the third quarter, Asiana Airlines' deferred revenue (unutilized mileage) stands at 981.9 billion won, while Korean Air's deferred revenue is approximately 2.55 trillion won.”