Originally Posted by
DownUnderFlyer
Unfortunately Star Alliance is not consistent anymore. NZ is not offering any luggage benefits for *G in long haul business class anymore and they also don't waive the bag charge for short haul routes (they don't call it bag charge but it is effectively the same).
I can't speak for NZ, but have started researching switching to Star (LX/CO/LH/UA), and the benefit is definitely there:
Extra Baggage Allowance - an additional 20kg (44 pounds) or one additional piece of luggage(2) which means you can check in three bags instead of two. (2)Applies on flights between North and South America
Source:
http://www.staralliance.com/en/benef...silver-status/
Edited to add: I've research NZ, and indeed their interpretation is interesting yet consistent with the above statement "which means you can check in three bags": (at
http://www.airnewzealand.co.nz/checked-in-baggage)
> Long-haul travel (tickets purchased from 26 May 10)
Economy 1 piece, max weight 23kg (50 lbs)
Premium Economy* 2 pieces, max weight 23kg (50 lbs) per piece
Business* 3 pieces, max weight 23kg (50 lbs) per piece
Gold Elite / Gold / Star Gold and Koru Club Members 1 additional piece per person, max 23kg (max 3 pieces)
(Not applicable with the 'Seat' product on trans-Tasman flights)
So in other words Star actually understands ex pats and dispersed families' needs (and golfers, skiers/snowboarders, divers, etc.!) better than
oneworld.