Newly merged national carrier Air India (AI) is in advanced talks to join the Star Alliance, a global airline grouping. AI''s entry into Star would immensely benefit its customers, civil aviation minister Praful Patel said on 24 August.

The Star Alliance comprises Singapore Airlines, Air New Zealand, Lufthansa, United Airlines, Thai, US Airways, South African Airways, Swissair, Austrian, Span Air, Asiana Airlines and Polish Airlines.