The Air France-KLM Group and Etihad Airwaysthe national airline of the United Arab Emirates, have just finalised a memorandum of understanding aimed at strengthening their collaboration in commercial passenger transport, loyalty programmes, talent development and aircraft maintenance.
Within the framework of this partnership, and subject to obtaining the necessary regulatory authorisations, Air France-KLM and Etihad plan to extend a code-share and interlining agreement dating back to 2012. Initially, more than 40 new routes serving destinations in Europe, the Middle East, Asia-Pacific and Australia go on sale on 7 Septemberfor travel from the summer season onwards.winter 2023.
More advantages for frequent flyers
The memorandum of understanding also provides for the possibility for customers who are members of loyalty programmes to Flying Blue and Etihad Guest to collect and use miles when travelling with Air France, KLM and Etihad. Air France-KLM and Etihad Airways will also study the possibility of combining their operations in the same terminals at certain airports.The two airlines have also agreed to grant each other's customers access to their airport lounges, and to cooperate on ground handling services, among other initiatives.
Etihad currently operates daily flights to Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Amsterdam Schiphol from Abu Dhabi International Airport. From 29 October 2023, it will also include a daily Air France flight from Paris-Charles de Gaulle.
Angus Clarke, Executive Vice President, Chief Commercial Officer, Air France-KLMsaid: " I am delighted to be continuing the development of our partnership with Etihad Airways, which began 11 years ago. We want to explore opportunities for cooperation in terms of maintenance and frequent flyer programmes, while expanding our network for the benefit of our customers. The attractiveness of Abu Dhabi as a destination and hub, and Etihad's strong presence in South and South-East Asia as well as in Australia, reinforce the interest of this partnership. This moment underlines our shared commitment to delivering seamless, customer-centric, premium travel experiences to our respective customers around the world." .
Arik De, Chief Revenue Officer Etihadcontinued: " This memorandum of understanding is proof of our shared vision for our customers. It builds on our existing partnership and aims to strengthen our network to improve connectivity between Abu Dhabi and ParisIt also demonstrates Etihad's commitment to supporting the cultural and economic growth of Abu Dhabi. It also demonstrates Etihad's commitment to supporting Abu Dhabi's cultural and economic growth. ".
