oneworld projects that Malaysia Airlines will begin flying as part of its alliance in late 2012. Similarly, both airberlin and India’s Kingfisher Airlines, currently oneworld members-elect, are scheduled to enjoy the full benefits of membership early next year.

Malaysia Airlines’ inclusion in the alliance will increase the number of cities served by the consortium to nearly 950. Customers of the Southeast Asian carrier will also benefit by receiving reward opportunities on any of oneworld’s top-tier airlines.

To Malaysia Airlines Managing Director and CEO Tengku Azmil Aziz, the implications for such a partnership are numerous. “As a company highly focused on quality service, we are immensely proud to have been invited to join the highest quality alliance with the best airline partners offering a global network that best complements our own,” Azis said. “We look forward to completing all joining requirements as soon as possible.”

Qantas CEO Alan Joyce also points to the myriad benefits of this alliance.

“Malaysia Airlines is an ideal candidate for oneworld, with its world-class reputation for customer service mirroring oneworld’s own focus,” Joyce said in a statement. “Its Kuala Lumpur home will provide our customers with another of the world’s best airports, geographically well-placed between our existing hubs. Qantas is delighted to be serving as its sponsor in joining oneworld.”