Monday, December 18, 2023
Today, Etihad Airways and China Eastern Airlines have signaled their commitment to bolstering their partnership by formally signing a Strategic Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement aims to strengthen commercial and operational ties, with a focus on providing travelers with expanded choices, higher-quality services, and increased value, all while contributing to sustainable aviation.
Expanding on their already successful collaboration, the airlines are planning a comprehensive partnership that encompasses an extended codeshare, reciprocal loyalty programs, cargo transport, maintenance, repair and overhaul, ground handling, catering, lounge access, staff training, and various sustainability initiatives. This holistic approach is designed to enhance efficiency while upholding the renowned hospitality standards of both airlines.
The MoU is expected to facilitate China Eastern’s aspiration to launch services to Abu Dhabi. Discussions with Abu Dhabi Airports, the Department of Culture and Tourism of Abu Dhabi, and other key stakeholders in the UAE capital will be crucial in realizing this goal.
By combining the services of Etihad and China Eastern, particularly with the newly opened Terminal A at Abu Dhabi International Airport, the collaboration aims to establish a robust platform for China-UAE air traffic. This platform will serve as an ideal launchpad for connecting flights between China, the Middle East, and Africa.
Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, underscores the significance of the partnership, stating, “Our two airlines have built a lasting partnership for over a decade. This MoU is a crucial milestone and key to establishing a long-term mutually beneficial cooperation. I am highly encouraged by the momentum of our cooperation, and I look forward to further success.”
He also highlights the importance of the agreement for direct links between Abu Dhabi and China, expressing confidence in the influential role of China Eastern in Etihad. The MoU is seen as a pathway to an agreement that will not only boost Abu Dhabi’s economic development but also support China’s ‘Belt and Road Initiative.’
Li Yangmin, President of China Eastern Airlines Group, emphasizes the practical aspects of the collaboration, stating, “The MoU builds upon our existing cooperation and enables us to collaborate in tangible ways as part of the flourishing relationship between China and the UAE.”
He notes that the connection between China Eastern’s Shanghai hub and Etihad’s network through Abu Dhabi will significantly enhance their presence in the Middle East and Africa, supporting the Belt and Road Initiative and the ‘Aerial Silk Road’ for economic, trade, and cultural exchanges.
Hussain Al Hammadi, the UAE Ambassador to China, underscores the strengthened collaboration by going beyond operational enhancements to promote extensive people-to-people exchanges. He expresses anticipation for a surge of Chinese tourists to the UAE, fostering deeper relationships across diplomacy, trade, culture, and various other spheres as the UAE and China approach the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
Monday, January 1, 2024
