Late last week, LATAM Airlines announced its decision to form a strategic partnership with Delta Air Lines and withdraw from the oneworld airline alliance. The collaboration aims to combine the airlines’ strengths to best serve travelers throughout the Americas.

“Our people, customers, owners and communities will all benefit from this exciting platform for future growth,” said Ed Bastian, chief executive officer, Delta Air Lines.

“This alliance with Delta strengthens our company and enhances our leadership in Latin America by providing the best connectivity through our highly complementary route networks,” said Enrique Cueto Plaza, chief executive officer, LATAM.

The partnership lets the airlines offer flights along their complementary networks to increase passenger connectivity within the Americas and beyond. Looking past the expanded networks, the partnership changes the airlines’ operations in a few other ways as well.

To start, Delta Air Lines will invest $1.9 billion for a 20 percent stake in LATAM. Delta is also investing $350 million to support the establishment of the partnership.

In terms of actual aircraft, Delta will acquire four Airbus A350s from LATAM and assume LATAM’s commitment to purchase 10 more from 2020 to 2025.  Delta is also gaining representation on LATAM’s board of directors.

LATAM made additional waves by announcing its intention to leave oneworld. Having joined the alliance in 2000, LATAM is a long-time member. The withdrawal will take some time. Until the separation is complete, LATAM passengers will continue to take advantage of oneworld benefits.

According to a oneworld statement, “We are disappointed, but we respect their decision. They have been a valued long-term member of the alliance, and we wish them well.” Oneworld consists of 13 global airlines including American Airlines, Japan Airlines, Iberia, Qatar Airways and more.

Do you regularly fly Delta Air Lines, LATAM Airlines or their alliances? Are you worried about this announcement’s impact on your own travel habits? Tell us. Email us at letters@globaltravelerusa.com. Please include your full name and location.