Shanghai-based airline Juneyao will join Star Alliance as a connecting partner. The move will become effective next year. As a connecting partner, Juneyao will be able to connect to the Star Alliance network without having to become a full member.

Member passengers flying on itineraries that include transfers between a Star Alliance carrier and a connecting partner will enjoy “standard Alliance benefits such as passenger and baggage through check-in,” as well as “a tailored set of privileges in line with the product offerings of the individual Connecting Partner” for Star Alliance Gold members.

For Juneyao, Star Alliance Gold members will have access to lounges, fast-track security, additional baggage allowance and priority check-in, boarding, standby and baggage delivery.

“Work has now commenced to establish the necessary technology and commercial links which will allow Juneyao Airlines to begin serving Star Alliance connecting passengers some time during the second quarter 2017,” the alliance said in a statement. “Connecting Partners will enter into bilateral commercial agreements with selected Star Alliance member airlines, which may include Frequent Flyer Programme based privileges.”

Mark Schwab, CEO, Star Alliance, said “Juneyao Airlines is a terrific addition to our network proposition in China and particularly in the Shanghai market. Thanks to Juneyao’s expanding reach, our passengers will enjoy a wide choice of flight connections through our future partner to numerous Chinese metropoles and several international destinations.”