Shanghai-based carrier Juneyao Airlines confirmed that it will join Star Alliance as a "Connecting Partner", in an effort to facilitate rapid international expansion, according to a reliable source familiar with the matter.

Juneyao Airlines is now preceding for an internal approval, the source said. As early as March 2016, Chairman Wang Zhenhua said that Juneyao airlines had contacted global alliances and had entered into discussions.

The Shanghai-based carrier currently operates 60 aircraft; Wang noted it is scheduled to double its fleet size by 2020. Meanwhile, partnerships could add impetus to Juneyao's nascent plans to fly long-haul by the end of the decade. Therefore, it's urgent to join a global alliance.

On July 28, the aviation watchdog released the allocation plan for the new Beijing airport, saying Star Alliance member Air China will remain at Beijing Capital International Airport. If Juneyao Airlines also joins, it will stay, too.

Meanwhile, Juneyao's network is complementary to existing Star members Shenzhen Airlines and Air China. Juneyao in Star would benefit from long-haul transits and enhance its presence in Shanghai.

Besides Juneyao Airlines, South Africa's low-cost carrier Mango and Air India Express also show intention to join Star Alliance.

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