Austrian Airlines Group has Joined Star Alliance.

Business Editors

STOCKHOLM, Sweden--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 27, 2000

The Austrian Airlines Group joined Star Alliance -- the airline network for Earth -- on March 26, becoming the 10th member of the global alliance.

The newest member comprises Austrian Airlines, Lauda Air and Tyrolean Airways and will considerably expand Star Alliance's reach into the eastern and southeastern parts of Europe as well as the Middle East.

Austrian Airlines Group serve more than 120 destinations in 67 countries with a combined fleet of some 90 aircraft. Almost 8 million passengers used their services in 1999.

Star Alliance airlines are the leading carriers in the regions they serve. As of March 26, the Star Alliance members are: SAS, Air Canada, Air New Zealand, ANA- All Nippon Airways, Ansett Australia, Austrian Airlines Group, Lufthansa German Airlines, Thai Airways International, United Airlines and VARIG Brazilian Airlines.

Singapore Airlines is set to join the alliance next month, to be followed later this year by Mexicana Airlines and British Midland Airways.

With the addition of the new members, the Star Alliance network will cover more than 800 destinations in 130 countries.

SAS CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS

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