Air India faces July 31 deadline to join Star Alliance

Lufthansa, a founding member of the Star Alliance, has said Air India needs to complete all formalities to join the global airline grouping before the final deadline of July 31.

"The Star Alliance has set the time limit for Air India to become a full-fledged member. So, it is time for Air India to prepare by July 31 and meet all criteria. All the solutions need to be worked out by that day", Carsten Spohr, CEO of Lufthansa German Airlines, said here.

Lufthansa has been Air India's mentor, helping and guiding it complete all formalities for joining the alliance.

Asked about Jet Airways' membership application, he said the private Indian carrier "will become the second member of Star Alliance. Whoever is ready, can join. We have extended an open arm to welcome both of them".