they were loooong time associated to KLM, hence "bound" to be induced in ST. Rumors had it that AF did not want them (for which reasons frankly don't know and would not comment on the singular pigheadedness to keep at bay a decent to good airline while at the same time inducing industry stalwarts such as GA, CI and MU), and they dragged their feet until QF came to the fore with an enticing offer on OWs behalf, that they accepted in virtually no time.