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Merlo, Prock-Schauer, Hogan, Ball, Kondić and Papa at the launch.

Etihad unveils new alliance

ABU DHABI, October 8, 2014

Etihad Airways has launched its own alliance which it said will give flyers more benefits than those offered by other global airline alliances.

Called  Etihad Airways Partners, the new “brand which brings together like-minded airlines to offer customers more choice through improved networks and schedules and enhanced frequent flyer benefits”, the UAE airline said in a statement.

Initially, six airlines will participate in the alliance - airberlin, Air Serbia, Air Seychelles, India’s Jet Airways, Darwin Airline, and Etihad Airways.  

However, any airline can become partner even if it is part of an existing alliance, such as airberlin, which is a member of the oneworld airline alliance, it said.

Etihad Airways president and CEO James Hogan said: “We are broadening our business model to articulate and define a partner proposition for like-minded airlines which will result in synergies and efficiencies for participating airlines on the one side, and enhanced network choice, service and frequent flyer benefits for the consumer on the other.

“The Etihad Airways Partners logo is a seal of excellence and global cooperation. It will be displayed on aircraft and on branded materials by a group of airlines working together to connect travellers around the world, and increasingly to harmonise standards in the air and on the ground.”

Hogan said Etihad Airways Partners differed from legacy airline alliances by offering benefits well beyond pure commercial co-operation.

“The potential for network alignment to maximise flight connectivity for passengers, together with a shared passion for superior service, are central to the ethos of the Etihad Airways Partner concept,” he said.

“Frequent flyers will benefit from the formation of Etihad Airways Partners as it will remove the complexity and confusion that exists within the global alliances.

“We’re aiming to deliver a consistent experience for frequent flyers when they travel, as well as a consistent framework for earning and using their miles,” he said adding that this will include standardised mileage and tier benefits across all partners, no blackout periods and priority services.

Partners will also have access to economies of scale and operational synergies such as centres of excellence, shared sales teams in certain destinations, joint procurement of services and supplies, and shared pilot and cabin crew training at the Etihad Airways’ facilities in Abu Dhabi. - TradeArabia News Service




Tags: Etihad | Airlines | Partners |

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