Video: Phil Blizzard here talks to Star Alliance chief executive Mark Schwab as the global aviation alliance prepares to move into its new home at London Heathrow. Some 24 members of Star Alliance will move into the brand new Terminal 2 at the airport from tomorrow, with services set to be revolutionised as a result.

Air India’s forthcoming membership of Star Alliance will be a welcome start to the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) governmental term, according to aviation intelligence expert OAG. As the BJP’s new Prime Minister Narendra Modi promises to revive economic growth in India, Air India’s new position will improve India’s connectivity to high-growth economies and give Star Alliance members access to India’s vibrant domestic air market.

The Chief Executive Board of Star Alliance has agreed to extend Avianca’s membership of the alliance to include its partner Avianca Brazil. The unanimous decision marks the first step in Star Alliance’s strategy to secure its position in the Brazilian market following current member airline TAM’s decision to leave the Alliance as a consequence of its merger with LAN.

EVA Air has joined the Star Alliance network, further strengthening its presence in Asia/Pacific. At the official joining ceremony, held at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, Mark Schwab, chief executive, Star Alliance said: “EVA Air has successfully completed all joining requirements and I can confirm that our Chief Executive Board has now unanimously accepted EVA Air into our Alliance.”

Star Alliance has prised an announcement by Heathrow Airport to designate Terminal 2 as the new home for its member carriers serving one of the world’s most important international airports. “We are delighted by today’s decision, which gives the green light for creating a new travel experience for our customers and allows our members airlines to operate an efficient hub in London,” said Mark Schwab, chief executive, Star Alliance.

Shenzhen Airlines has become the latest carrier to join the Star Alliance network. At a ceremony held at Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, Mark Schwab, chief executive of Star Alliance, welcomed the airline into the family on behalf on the chief executive board.