The SkyTeam Governing Board announced that Middle East Airlines, Air Liban (MEA), Lebanon`s national carrier, has taken the first steps toward becoming a SkyTeam Associate Airline. Air France will serve as the airline’s sponsor during the joining process, with completion expected within the next 15 months.

“We are pleased that MEA, with an established presence in the Middle East region and in the Arabic world, is interested in affiliating itself with SkyTeam,” said Jean-Cyril Spinetta, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air France KLM. “The alliance looks forward to working with the airline and providing all passengers with additional opportunities in this high-growth market.”

As announced previously, the Associate Program extends SkyTeam’s benefits to more passengers. As part of their involvement with SkyTeam, Associate Airlines will adhere to key alliance customer programs, including frequent flyer reciprocity, lounge access and codeshare agreements.

MEA, which celebrated its 60th anniversary last year, serves 1.2 million passengers annually. With a modern fleet of three Airbus A330-200 and six Airbus A321-200 aircraft, the airline flies to 26 destinations in 17 countries, serving cities in Europe, the Middle East, Gulf States and Africa.