, Jan. 8 -- haka: China Southern Airlines is set to leave the SkyTeam alliance as it decides not to renew its contract with one of the world's three major airline alliances, as of 1 January 2019.

The alliance said that the airline's decision reflects its strategic development, the changing trends of the global aviation industry and the evolution of alliances.

Kristin Colvile, Chief Executive Officer, SkyTeam, said, "Network has always been the foundation of SkyTeam. Our new value proposition retains that strong integrated network and combines it with our continued focus on improving customer experience through technology. China Southern has been a valued member of SkyTeam. We respect its decision and wish it well."

The transition pr...