Some links to products and partners on this website will earn an affiliate commission.

After more than a few false starts, Virgin Atlantic, Delta, and Air France/KLM have officially launched their new joint venture as of today (3rd February 2020).

Far more interesting for most readers though is the news that reciprocal status benefits, status points earning, and miles earning and burning, will all be launched on 13th February 2020:

“Starting from 13 February, enhanced customers benefits will kick in meaning that loyalty programme members will be able to earn and use miles or enjoy elite benefits for flights on any of the four airlines’ worldwide operations, including a trans-Atlantic trip, intra-Europe hop, or domestic U.S. journey, offering more opportunities to quickly move through loyalty tiers and reach a higher status. Eligible elite loyalty programme members can also enjoy priority boarding and relax in over 100 airport lounges when travelling internationally.”

If you have elite status with either Virgin Atlantic Flying Club or Air France/KLM Flying Blue, this is a big win. For example, Virgin elite members will be able to access Air France/KLM lounges when flying to/from Paris or Amsterdam.

The main unresolved question is what the respective award charts will look like (and what sort of surcharges will be levied), but all should be clear by the 13th Feb at the latest!

Will the new partnership tempt you away from British Airways?