Originally Posted by
Supersonic Swinger
The article is a ridiculous source to use as a cite claiming anything as likely, particularly when looking at 9W, MH and IT. Here's the actual excerpt from that post:
Van Wijk says that elsewhere in the Asia-Pacific, the group has been in informal discussions with China Eastern Airlines, which rival alliance oneworld is also courting, as well as Taiwan's China Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, and India's Jet Airways and Kingfisher Airlines. ...
Van Wijk says none have yet committed, however. He adds that India in particular is a market in which SkyTeam very much wants to have a member. Oneworld is also courting both Jet and Kingfisher in that market, while late last year Air India agreed to join the Star Alliance.
So there are possibly some discussions going on there. That is a MUCH different situation from likely members. The 9W and IT situations are far from a sure thing.
I haven't read the TN article (and I'm assuming no one else here has) so I cannot comment as the how reasonable the assertion is. I'm not going to pay for a subscription that has access to the article to read it.