STAR Alliance is to unveil its latest member, All Nippon Airways, in Tokyo on Friday.
The Japanese carrier will work towards the range of codeshare, frequent flyer and airport agreements with the eight other members of the group.
ANAwill bring an extensive domestic and Asian network to Star Alliance group. It serves Tokyo and Osaka from Heathrow.
The group was founded by Lufthansa, SAS, United Airlines, Thai Airways and Air Canada in May 1997. Varig, Ansett Australia and Air New Zealand have since joined.
Executives from the alliance are also expected to confirm the membership of Singapore Airlines. A statement is also due on whether British Midland is to join.
Current 40% shareholder SAS and partner Lufthansa are also preparing bids for British Midland.
KLM’s president Leo van Wijk has also confirmed his airline was considering a bid for part of the UK airline to bring it into Wings. Air France has also confirmed it is discussions with British Midland.