Star Alliance Introduces New ‘Round the World’ Fares

Star Alliance has introduced new Round the World (RTW) fares, making it possible to travel and stop only at two destinations for at least 24 hours.

“By enabling round the world travel with only two stopovers, we are increasing the attractiveness of the Star Alliance RTW fare product,” said  Janice Antonson, Star Alliance vice president, commercial and communications.

Up to now, a minimum of three stopovers was required for all RTW tickets.“Customers will now find it easier to build their bespoke routing, choosing from the vast offer provided by our 28 member airlines, operating more than 18,400 daily flights, connecting 1,300 destinations in 191 countries,” Antonson added.

The Star Alliance RTW fares are available for travel in First, Business, Premium Economy or Economy Class and are valid for 12 months.

Customers can build their own routings within the maximum mileage of the selected fare level. Travel needs to begin and end in the same country and be in one direction, either going East or West, although some zigzagging is permitted within a single continent. Both the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean must be crossed once.

In addition to building an itinerary from scratch, customers can also choose from a range of themed RTW journeys, which include, among others, world food, architecture hotspots, nature trail and aquatic wonders.

Stopovers of at least 24 hours must be made in a minimum of two cities and the overall itinerary may include up to 15 stops. As part of offering greater choice to RTW travelers, certain RTW special fares are also available, requiring at least three stopovers and allowing a maximum number of stops that range from five to 12.

Star Alliance RTW tickets can be booked online, using the “Star Alliance Book & Fly” tool, which is available in English, German and Japanese. Alternatively customers can contact any Star Alliance member airline or a travel agent to book and purchase an RTW ticket.