Discussions explore commercial cargo joint opportunities
Etihad Airways, and Saudi national flag carrier, Saudia, have announced a new codeshare partnership, providing customers with access to more than 40 destinations in the home markets and across the world.
In addition to the codeshare agreement, the two carriers also announced plans for greater commercial cooperation in other fields, including frequent flyer programme benefits, cargo, and engineering and maintenance.
The codeshare agreement was signed at Saudia headquarters in Jeddah by Eng. Saleh Bin Naser Al Jasser, Director General Saudi Arabian Airlines, and Tony Douglas, Group Chief Executive Officer, of Etihad Aviation Group.
They were joined by Jaan Albercht, CEO, Saudia; Ahmed Al Qubaisi, Senior Vice President Government & International Affairs, Etihad Aviation Group; and Ali Saleh, Vice President Alliances & Partnerships, Etihad Aviation Group.
“The new partnership broadens aviation and transport links with the United Arab Emirates, building on the extensive aviation investment and strong foundation in the sector,” affirmed Engr. Al Jasser.
“The ties shared between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are deep and therefore we are extremely proud to play our role and bring the two flag carriers together in this unique partnership,” remarked Douglas.
In the cargo world, the teams in both airlines’ divisions are in talks about greater cooperation, recognising the increased volumes of freighter traffic flowing into and out of the UAE and the Saudi Arabia.
