Etihad Unveils Etihad Airways Partners

Etihad Airways has unveiled Etihad Airways Partners, a new brand which brings together like-minded airlines to offer travellers more choice through improved networks and schedules and enhanced frequent flyer benefits.

Initially, six airlines will participate in the new partnership – airberlin, Air Serbia, Air Seychelles, India’s Jet Airways, Darwin Airline and Etihad Airways. However, any airline can become an Etihad Airways Partner even if it is part of an existing alliance, such as airberlin, which is a member of oneworld. The key emphasis for Etihad Airways Partners is a strong commercial partnership and shared values.

Etihad president James Hogan commented, “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 co-operation. It will be displayed on aircraft and on branded materials by a group of airlines working together to connect travellers around the world.”

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

“The potential for network alignment to maximize 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.”

This will include standardized mileage and tier benefits across all partners, no blackout periods and priority services.