Deutsche Bahn confirms Star Alliance intermodal partner membership

Deutsche Bahn will make its intercity train network available to airlines in the Star Alliance network from 1 August 2022. The effort, first tipped in May along with a new alliance-branded credit card, will allow passengers from any of the airline partners to add onward connections on the rail network as part of a single booking.

Once again we are pioneers in Germany for the intelligent linking of transport worlds. We create added value for customers, for Germany as a business location, and for the environment and society. Mobility of the future means mastering challenges together.

– Harry Hohmeister, Member of the Executive Board of Deutsche Lufthansa AG

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The partnership builds on the existing Lufthansa Express Rail program. That program has allowed onward rail connections on a single booking for more than two decades. From next month it will extend to the other airlines in the alliance.

In addition to opening more cities for bookings, the rail program allows for more frequent service to some markets and a lower emissions option for many short-haul routes.

Today joins the forces of two different transport providers, opening the doors of Star Alliance beyond the airline world. Our new model for intermodal partnerships creates the conditions for coordinated cooperation between different modes of transport in all Star Alliance markets. We are delighted to welcome Deutsche Bahn as our first Star Alliance intermodal partner.

– Jeffrey Goh, CEO Star Alliance

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Combined air-rail journeys promise the option to earn points for the rail segment, according to the alliance. Passengers traveling in premium cabins on their flights will also have access to the DB lounges. Star Alliance Gold status, however, might not be enough to access the rail lounge.

Customers can also enjoy an expedited baggage drop area at Frankfurt when connecting to a flight.

Still unclear, however, is how pricing will be managed within the partnership.