‘All about more choices, India’s aviation market huge’: Star Alliance CEO on Air India-Lufthansa partnership in expanding aviation market

India is a major aviation market, and a stronger partnership between Air India and Lufthansa is beneficial, Star Alliance CEO Theo Panagiotoulias said. According to him, the association aims to unite its partners to provide unique value to passengers. Both Air India and Lufthansa are members of the Star Alliance, which includes 26 member airlines collaborating at over 50 global hubs to offer seamless connections worldwide. “We need to ensure that the right value proposition is there in India, which is a significant market,” Panagiotoulias added. According to a report by PTI, at the IATA annual general meeting in Dubai this week, Panagiotoulias expressed optimism about the Indian market, highlighting its vast opportunities. “It is all about more choices, options and for a market size of India that is the very best thing.” Upon being asked about the enhanced partnership between Air India and Lufthansa, the CEO said strengthening partnerships within the alliance is highly beneficial. Both airlines have a strong codeshare partnership that ensures seamless connectivity for their passengers. Meanwhile, on the sidelines of the IATA annual general meeting, Lufthansa Group Chairman and CEO Carsten Spohr met with Air India CEO and Managing Director Campbell Wilson. Responding to a query about the Indian market during a media roundtable, Spohr confirmed having a lengthy discussion with Wilson but did not disclose the details. He also affirmed the potential for the partnership with Air India to extend beyond Star Alliance.<br/>