• First-ever Korean Finance Lease for Airbus A380
• Unique fixed coupon, 15-year term and 100 per cent financing

Abu Dhabi | March 19, 2015– Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates, has completed a Korean Finance Lease for its second new Airbus A380 aircraft.

The funding was provided by way of a private placement with a group of major Korean institutional investors and was arranged by London-based aviation finance specialists Magi Partners in conjunction with their Korean associates, Youjee Partners. The deal follows non-deal roadshow meetings between Etihad Airways and Korean investors in early 2014, and a competitive global request for proposals last summer.

The transaction, which is structured as a 15-year, fixed coupon full-payout finance lease, is the first ever Korean financing to be arranged covering the entire cost of a brand new A380 aircraft.

The aircraft is the second of a fleet of ten A380s on order from Etihad Airways to enter service and, like all the airline’s A380s, features The Residence by Etihad™.*

Since inception Etihad Airways has raised more than US$10.5 billion from over 70 financial institutions and lessors to fund its fleet of aircraft and engines.

James Hogan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “We are delighted to have engaged so positively with Korean investors, thereby securing strong interest from Korean institutions in the course of our first entry into the Korean market, which we see as a potentially fruitful longer term partnership for us in the future.”

Peter Vardigans of Magi Partners, said: “This financing is a landmark deal for the Korean market and we are delighted to have been able to complete this transaction for such a prestigious airline as Etihad Airways. We anticipate that Korean institutions will provide a growing strategic source of capital for the global aviation market. “

Warns against action which would restrict competitive choice for travellers
Abu Dhabi | March 17, 2015– Open Skies has been “a model of success, generating enormous benefits for travellers and for airlines in the US, the UAE and around the world,” said James Hogan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, speaking today at the US Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s 14th Annual Aviation Summit in Washington, DC.

In his first public comments since three US airlines launched a campaign against Etihad Airways and other Gulf carriers, Mr Hogan called for reasoned debate based upon facts. He also warned against action which would restrict competitive choice for millions of US and international air travellers in markets which the US airlines have chosen not to serve.

Mr Hogan’s speech laid out the key facts behind Etihad Airways’ growth and its competitive strategy.

“As one of the newest national airlines anywhere in the world, we’ve had to create everything from scratch: every bit of product, every bit of our operations, every bit of our infrastructure,” he said.

“Etihad is a David, a David who’s been facing Goliaths since 2003, when we started. In virtually every market we’ve entered, we’ve had to face existing competitors, with established businesses, established infrastructure, established sales and marketing, established brands, and established customer bases.

“In many cases, those established airlines were gifted amazing infrastructure – airports, terminals, slots, landing rights – over decades.

“To take them on, we’ve had to work harder and we’ve had to work smarter. That’s called competition.

“We’ve been helped by our geographic position. The Gulf is at the centre of today’s trade and travel routes. Today’s aircraft technology and the changing patterns of world trade mean we are positioned strongly for many new and emerging markets.

“We’ve been helped by our blank sheet of paper – no legacy systems, no legacy aircraft, no legacy mindsets.

“And we’ve been pushed hard by the vision and ambition of our shareholder to create a globally competitive airline.”

Mr Hogan said the ‘secret’ behind Etihad Airways’ rapid growth was nothing more than incredible customer service, delivered on modern new aircraft, with world-leading product, at competitive prices, on routes people want to fly.

He also said that Etihad Airways had been more transparent about its business than other airlines.

“Etihad Airways has had a greater focus on reaching and delivering sustainable profitability – we believe – than any other national airline in history,” he said. “We set a timetable to break even within a decade and we beat that target. We’ve delivered a net profit in each of the last three years.

“I say ‘we believe’ because it is surprisingly hard to find financial information about the first one or two decades of national airlines around the world. We get criticized regularly for our so-called lack of transparency but we see few national airlines that were as open in their first stages of development, as we are being in ours.”

As a national airline owned by its government, said Mr Hogan, Etihad Airways is no different than scores of airlines around the world. The airline has always made clear it has received equity investment and shareholder loans, which have been supplemented by US$ 10.5 billion in loans from international financial institutions.

“Our shareholder believes in our business plan. They have increased their commitment as we have developed – they have invested in our success.

“They’ve seen the success we are delivering, both as a business in our own right and as a catalyst for other business, trade and tourism, in Abu Dhabi and the UAE. We are now not just an airline but a successful aviation group, incorporating handling, maintenance and distribution capabilities.

“Our shareholder, like any rational shareholder in the world, has made that commitment to us because it expects a return, and as it sees greater success from our business, it sees the opportunity for even greater returns in the future.

“The key word is return.”

Mr Hogan continued by outlining the economic contribution that Etihad Airways delivers to the United States, directly through its daily flights between Abu Dhabi and six US destinations, which the airline serves exclusively, and also through its extensive supply chain partners throughout the country.

“We regard ourselves as a friend of the United States,” he said. “Certainly, the bonds between the UAE and the USA are incredibly strong, and we believe Etihad Airways has always reflected that in our business operations.

“We are major customers of Boeing, of GE, of Sabre, and of many other American businesses. We work with strategic American partners – for example, with Atlas, on developing and improving global cargo operations. We work with US financial institutions, with US tourist boards, with US airports. Our commitment to the US economy supports more than 200,000 jobs.”

He used the example of the airline’s first Boeing 787 Dreamliner flight into the United States, which started on Sunday from Abu Dhabi to Washington DC. The aircraft is the second of 71 Dreamliners on order from Boeing, part of total orders of almost 120 aircraft worth more than US$ 36 billion with the American manufacturer.

In addition, he said, Etihad Airways delivered 180,000 travellers onto the networks of US airlines in 2014, and 50,000 in the first two months of 2015.

Mr Hogan finished his speech by saying Open Skies is about customer choice.

“This is ultimately all about consumer choice. Customers choose to fly Etihad Airways because we offer a great product, with outstanding service, on the routes they want to fly, at prices that are competitive within those markets.

“They choose us against many different competitors, depending upon which market we are in. But quite honestly, it is very rare that US carriers offer those alternatives. No US carrier flies into Abu Dhabi. There are very few US carriers operating to where we do in the Indian sub-continent, in south-east Asia, or in the wider Middle East.

“We make no apologies for offering new competitive choice for air travellers. We hope to continue to do so around the world.”

• 80 per cent increase in usage of Etihad Airways’ Wi-Fi network in 2014
• Over 60 per cent increase in usage of Etihad Airways’ mobile network in 2014
• More than 2.5 million devices connected to the airline’s onboard mobile network in 2014
• An average of 50,000 hours of Live TV viewed every month

Abu Dhabi | February 4, 2015– Etihad Airways, which next month becomes one of the few airlines in the world to offer fleet-wide inflight connectivity services, has witnessed a dramatic surge in Internet and mobile phone usage in 2014.

Reflecting the broader trend for people to use their personal devices for work and entertainment when travelling, the growth was largely driven by people logging onto Etihad Airways’ Wi-Fi network, with usage rising by 80 per cent last year.

Increased demand for onboard mobile services also contributed to the surge in usage, with 2.6 million devices connecting to the airline’s onboard mobile network in 2014. Inflight texts and mobile phone calls increased by 62 per cent and 61 per cent respectively, compared to the same period in 2013.

iOS was the most popular operating system onboard, with 55 per cent of the airline’s guests connecting to the Internet with their iPads and iPhones, while 30 per cent used devices running on Android’s operating system.

Etihad Airways’ Live TV service is attracting strong interest and receiving great feedback from travellers, with an average of 50,000 hours of live news and major sporting events being viewed each month.

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways’ Chief Commercial Officer, said: “We continue to redefine our guests’ air travel experience with innovative products and services, the latest communication technology and entertainment systems that best fit their needs.

“When people travel, they want to stay connected with their work, their friends and their family. They also want to be kept up-to-date with 24 hour world news services. This is now possible for the entire journey on an Etihad Airways flight.”

The services comprising Wi-Fi, mobile connectivity and live television, combine the “Etihad Wi-Fly” solution, powered by the Panasonic Avionics Global Communications Suite, and OnAir’s inflight connectivity solution.

The high-speed broadband services enable guests to access the Internet from laptops, tablets and smartphones over Wi-Fi, allowing them to send emails, log onto their favourite social media sites, upgrade seats, change travel plans and much more, all from the comfort of their seats at 35,000 feet.

The mobile connectivity service allows guests to use their mobile phones and smartphones to make and receive phone calls, send and read SMS text messages or email, use mobile data services to browse the web, and much more.

Now available on 43 wide-body aircraft, the Live TV service brings quality content from seven television channels including BBC World News, Sport 24 and CNN, the top three most viewed channels, and CNBC, euronews, Japan’s NHK World Premium, and Sky News Arabia.

The airline’s connected fleet comprises 92 passenger aircraft including 29 Airbus A319/320/321s, 26 A330s, 11 A340s, one A380, 24 Boeing 777 family aircraft and the first B787 Dreamliner, which serve routes across six continents. All future aircraft scheduled for delivery through 2015 will also be equipped with inflight connectivity.

Packages to access the Internet start at US$5 and can be purchased using credit cards, PayPal and a range of other convenient payment methods. Mobile telephone usage will be billed by the guest’s mobile service providers based on the international roaming rates levied by the service providers.

Notes: All Etihad Airways’ narrow-body aircraft offer a mix of Wi-Fi and mobile services, or mobile services only.

• Greater opportunities for MilleMiglia’s 4.6 million members to earn and redeem miles
• Guests who register as new MilleMiglia members before February 28 will receive a double welcome bonus of 4,000 miles
• Acquisition marks Etihad Airways’ third investment in a frequent flyer programme, with majority stakes also purchased in airberlin’s topbonus and Jet Airways’ JetPrivilege, alongside its full ownership of the Etihad Guest programme
• Together, Etihad Guest, topbonus, JetPrivilege and MilleMiglia have a combined total of 14 million members worldwide
• Etihad Airways now operates frequent flyer programmess for seven airlines around the world under its Global Loyalty Company (GLC) umbrella

UAE and Italy | February 3, 2015– Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has acquired a 75 per cent stake in Alitalia Loyalty S.p.A, the owner and operator of MilleMiglia, Alitalia’s frequent flyer programme, with Alitalia retaining the remaining 25 per cent stake.

Alitalia Loyalty will become part of Global Loyalty Company (GLC), a loyalty and lifestyle company that allows Etihad Airways and its partners to target the global loyalty market more effectively, whilst driving technology and back office synergies. GLC also consists of Etihad Airways’ Etihad Guest, airberlin’s topbonus and Jet Airways’ JetPrivilege programmess. Together, Etihad Guest, topbonus, JetPrivilege and MilleMiglia have a combined total of 14 million members worldwide.

The addition of MilleMiglia will lead to enhanced opportunities for members to collect and redeem their miles around the world. In addition, it will give GLC true global scale and a critical mass of valuable, high-spending consumers.

Abu Dhabi, UAE | February 2, 2015– Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, yesterday introduced its first Boeing 787 Dreamliner into commercial service.

The first flight, operated by a Boeing 787-9, departed Abu Dhabi at 02.15 as flight EY23 for the 7 hour 25 minute flight to Düsseldorf, Germany. The flight arrived at 06.40 the same morning. The return service from Düsseldorf to Abu Dhabi departs at 10.20 with a scheduled arrival time of 19.50 back in Abu Dhabi.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at the departure gate to mark the occasion, attended on behalf of Etihad Airways by Peter Baumgartner, Chief Commercial Officer, Khaled Al Mehairbi, Senior Vice President Government Aero Political Affairs, Richard Hill, Chief Operations Officer, and Ali Al Shamsi, Vice President Abu Dhabi Hub.

Special gift packs were handed to guests on the inaugural flight, including luggage tags, passport holders and commemorative B787 certificates.

James Hogan, Etihad Airways President and Chief Executive Officer, said: “This is a tremendous milestone for Etihad Airways. The Boeing 787 is without doubt the most technologically advanced aircraft in its class. It will provide us with a clear reduction in operating costs and carbon emissions, at maximum reliability and efficiency. The dimensions and unique features of this aircraft have allowed us to customise it with the most innovative and sophisticated cabins, providing our guests with levels of comfort and attention to detail not previously enjoyed by the modern airline traveller.”

Etihad Airways revolutionary new B787 interiors feature 8 First Suites, 28 Business Studios and 199 Economy Smart Seats, offering superior levels of comfort, entertainment and in-flight connectivity. On-board décor and lighting has been inspired by contemporary modern Arabian design, complementing the new ‘Facets of Abu Dhabi’ design identity recently introduced by the airline.

Etihad Airways’ order for two variants of the B787 (-9 and -10), is one of the largest for the type, totalling 71 aircraft. The airline will place the aircraft on other key medium and long-haul routes such as Washington DC, Mumbai, Moscow and Brisbane, with more destinations being added as the airline takes delivery of more of the type. The airline will also begin taking delivery of B787s in a two-class configuration from 2016.

The wide-body Boeing 787-9 is a stretched version of the advanced medium to long-range twin engine B787-8, with a range of up to 8,300 nautical miles and a cruising speed of Mach 0.85. It is 206 feet in length and has a wingspan of 197 feet.

The lightweight composite materials used in the aircraft mean that the B787 uses up to 30% less fuel than other aircraft in its category and as a result produces a comparable reduction in carbon dioxide emissions. The B787 also uses a number of new technologies to ensure that the aircraft’s noise footprint is more that 60% smaller than other aircraft of its size.

Abu Dhabi, UAE | February 2, 2015– Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, carried a record number of passengers and cargo in 2014, marking its strongest operational performance to date.

Almost 14.8 million passengers flew with Etihad Airways last year, a significant increase of 23 per cent over 2013 levels. The growth in passenger demand continued to outstrip the airline’s capacity increase, highlighting the strength of its long-term growth strategy.

In total, Etihad Airways carried more than 74 per cent of the 19.9 million passengers who travelled through Abu Dhabi International Airport in 2014. With the addition of the airline’s equity partners that operate flights into the UAE capital, the combined total rises to a significant 82 per cent of passenger traffic at Abu Dhabi International Airport.

James Hogan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “Our business model, which focuses on organic network growth, codeshare partnerships and minority equity investments in other airlines, continued to yield positive results in 2014 and surpassed our double-digit targets for passenger and cargo growth.”

Etihad Airways introduced 10 additional destinations to its global route network in 2014, with new services launched to Medina, Jaipur, Los Angeles and Zurich in the first half of the year, and Perth, Rome, Yerevan, Phuket, San Francisco and Dallas in the second half of the year. In addition, frequencies were increased on 23 existing routes across the world in 2014.

Building on its organic growth, the airline also expanded its codeshare and equity partnerships last year. These partnerships delivered over 3.5 million passengers onto Etihad Airways flights, an increase of 40 per cent over the 2.5 million passengers in 2013.

New codeshare agreements were launched with Air Europa, jetBlue, Philippine Airlines, GOL, SAS, Hong Kong Airlines and Aerolineas Argentinas, while Etihad Airways’ existing codeshares with South African Airways, Alitalia and Jet Airways were significantly expanded.

In August 2014, the airline announced a €560 million investment in New Alitalia to acquire a 49 per cent shareholding in the carrier, a 75 per cent interest in Alitalia Loyalty, which operates the MilleMiglia frequent flier program, and five pairs of slots at London’s Heathrow Airport, which will be leased back to Alitalia. The transaction received European Commission merger clearance in November 2014 and became effective on 31 December 2014.

Alitalia is the latest addition to Etihad Airways’ equity partners network, which also includes airberlin, Air Serbia, Air Seychelles, Aer Lingus, Jet Airways and Virgin Australia. An investment is being formalised in Swiss-based Etihad Regional, operated by Darwin Airline.

In addition, Etihad Airways Partners was unveiled last year to offer passengers more choice through improved networks and schedules, plus enhanced frequent flyer benefits. The partnership also builds greater synergies for participating airlines, which currently include airberlin, Air Serbia, Air Seychelles, Etihad Airways, Etihad Regional, Jet Airways and NIKI.

Etihad Airways also reported strong cargo growth for 2014, with 568,648 tonnes of freight and mail flown in total, a 17 per cent increase year-on-year. The airline accounted for 89.6 per cent of cargo imports, exports and transfers at Abu Dhabi airport last year.

Over the course of last year, Etihad Cargo enhanced its global reach by offering bellyhold capacity on Etihad Airways’ 10 new passenger destinations and expanding its freighter services to new markets such as Dar es Salaam, Entebbe, Hanoi and Moscow. A freighter service was also launched from Milan to Bogotá and from Bogotá to Amsterdam, following an agreement with Avianca Cargo, the cargo division of Latin American carrier Avianca.

Etihad Airways’ fleet consisted of 110 aircraft at the end of 2014 (+24 per cent year-on-year), with an average age of 5.5 years. The airline took delivery of its first Airbus A380 and Boeing 787-9 in December, with both state-of-the-art aircraft offering new standards in cabin interiors, together with considerable fuel efficiency and environmental improvements.

An additional nine Airbus aircraft (two A330-200s, three A321s, three A320s and one A330-200F) and six Boeing aircraft (one 777-300ER, five 777-200LRs) were received in 2014, while further leased capacity was also added to enhance the airline’s rapid growth.

Mr Hogan added: “We enter 2015 as a stronger, more dynamic airline that will continue to enhance the growth of Abu Dhabi as one of the world’s emerging aviation hubs.”

Italy | January 20, 2015– The strategy for the new Alitalia was unveiled today, with an unequivocal commitment by the new executive team and strategic investors to reinvent the airline.

Alitalia will introduce new routes, new product and service standards, a new cost management strategy and new branding, as the foundations to build a premium global airline representing the best of Italy.

The new Alitalia commenced operations on 1 January 2015, following the completion of equity investments by Etihad Airways and Alitalia’s existing shareholders. The new company’s Board meeting yesterday ratified the business strategy, which was outlined today by Luca di Montezemolo, Chairman of Alitalia, Silvano Cassano, Chief Executive Officer of Alitalia, and James Hogan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Aviation Group and Vice Chairman of Alitalia.

Luca di Montezemolo said: “The energies, passion and expertise I have experienced at Alitalia in recent weeks do not leave any doubt that the airline we’re unveiling today will become once again a premium Italian airline recognised worldwide. This is why I believe the people in Alitalia are a pillar of the history we’re about to write.

“Our priority is to put the customer at the centre of everything we do. And to do that, we will change many things, starting with the way we work. We need to work as one united team to achieve this great common goal.

“The revitalised Alitalia we envision and have started building, will be an asset to this country, and a driver to support the growth of our tourism and our business.”

James Hogan said Alitalia’s future will rely on major change throughout the organisation.

“In a market still beset by the continuing Eurozone crisis, anything other than rapid, decisive change is simply not an option.

“This is the right strategy, with the right management team to lead it.

“But there should be no doubts at all: we have made a commercial investment that must deliver a commercial return.

“We’ve invested in the new Alitalia because we believe it can flourish again. It will only succeed if there is 100 per cent support from everyone.  The coming months and next few years will not be easy, but if everyone pulls together as one team, Alitalia can grow again.”

Mr Hogan said that Alitalia’s major investors had set a clear deadline for the airline to deliver profitability by 2017.

Outlining the airline’s new strategy, Mr Cassano said: “The new Alitalia strategy is serious, it is exciting and it is commercial.   It is a strategy for success – if everybody delivers.

“It is serious because it has been developed over months by an executive team and a set of partners that share extensive and in-depth industry expertise.

“It is exciting because of the vision and ambition that we have for the brand and for the business. This is the chance to create a new Alitalia, one which Italy can truly feel proud of.

“And it is commercial because that is the only way this can work.  Every single employee at Alitalia has to get into a commercial mindset, one in which the basis of every decision is: Does this add value to our customer? Does it add value to our company? And does it help us to deliver a financial return?

“We need to create a performance-based, customer-focused culture which results in a sustainably profitable airline, one which can grow over the long term.

“The investment we have received from our shareholders gives us the opportunity to do that.”

Mr Cassano added: “A successful Alitalia means jobs, it means trade and it means tourism.  It means a major impact on the Italian economy.”

The key elements of the new business strategy include:

Network

• A new three-hub strategy in Italy.  Milan Malpensa will increase long-haul services, while Milan Linate will increase connectivity with partner airline hubs.  Rome Fiumicino will grow long-haul flying and continue to expand short and medium haul flying to maintain relevance to the Italian market.
• Schedules across the network will be optimised to allow better connectivity, as well as increased codesharing with existing and new partners.
• New routes from Rome include Berlin, Dusseldorf, San Francisco, Mexico City, Santiago (Chile), Beijing and Seoul, with increased flights to New York, Chicago, Rio de Janeiro and Abu Dhabi.
• Alitalia will also add 13 weekly flights from Milan Malpensa, with daily services to Abu Dhabi, four flights a week to Shanghai, and additional flights to Tokyo.
• There will also be increased connectivity with Etihad Airways’ hub in Abu Dhabi, with daily services from Venice, Milan, Bologna and Catania, as well as additional flights from Rome, all allowing onward connections to the Middle East, Africa, the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, China and Australia.
• Venice will be the only Italian airport, in addition to Rome Fiumicino and Milan Malpensa, from which Alitalia will operate services to Abu Dhabi with long-haul aircraft.

Cooperation
While exploring further opportunities to deepen the relationships with Skyteam members and in particular Air France/KLM and Delta, there will be a major new partnership with airberlin & NIKI, as well as increased connectivity with Etihad Airways.  There are also plans to work more deeply with Air Serbia and Etihad Regional. These partnerships will increase customer choice across many markets.

Fleet
Alitalia and Etihad Airways and its partners are exploring opportunities to improve jointly fleet efficiency.  For example, Alitalia is in the process of relocating 14 Airbus A320s to airberlin, and looking into options with Etihad Airways to acquire additional wide-body aircraft for Alitalia. Alitalia will also have opportunities to receive aircraft from Etihad Airways’ existing fleet orderbook.

Guest Services
A new customer-first culture, with new product and service standards across the airline.  A new Customer Excellence Training Academy will deliver skills to all customer-facing staff, while customers will experience traditional Italian hospitality, new food service options, new-look lounges in Rome, Milan Malpensa and Milan Linate.

Brand
Alitalia will launch a new brand and visual identity, covering aircraft, uniforms and all other customer touch-points. While the name will remain unchanged, the new branding will seek to capture and embody the essence of Italy.

Abu Dhabi | December 30, 2014– Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has signed a codeshare agreement with Aerolíneas Argentinas, one of South America’s leading airlines.

Effective 1 February 2015, the agreement will offer Etihad Airways’ guests greater access to South America via Aerolíneas Argentinas’ Buenos Aires hub.

As part of the agreement, Etihad Airways will place its ‘EY’ flight code on Aerolíneas Argentinas’ operated flights across the Argentinian airline’s extensive domestic network, as well as to key destinations in South America including Uruguay, Chile and Paraguay.

Guests will be able to travel on Etihad Airways’ marketed flights to Buenos Aires and from there to 20 popular destinations in South America including: Asuncion, Bariloche, Bahia Blanca, Comodoro Rivadavia, Cordoba, El Calafate, Iguazú, Mar del Plata, Mendoza, Montevideo, Neuquén, Rio Gallegos, Rio Grande, Rosario, Salta, San Juan, Santiago de Chile, Trelew, Tucuman and Ushuaia.

Flights under the codeshare agreement can be booked from mid-January 2015 via travel agents or through the airlines’ sales offices and contact centres.

Etihad Airways’ President and Chief Executive Officer, James Hogan, said: “Codeshares are a fundamental pillar of Etihad Airways’ strategy and our new commercial partnership with Aerolíneas Argentinas is a significant development for both airlines. We are now able to enhance our business and leisure travel offering between the UAE, Argentina and onwards to the strategically important South American market.”

Aerolineas Argentinas’ President and CEO, Mariano Recalde, said: “We are delighted to sign this agreement with Etihad Airways, which offers its passengers enhanced connectivity within Argentina and the Southern Cone of the Americas, through the extensive Aerolineas network.”

In June 2013, Etihad Airways launched non-stop flights between Abu Dhabi and São Paulo, the airline’s first destination in South America. The flights currently offer 3,360 seats per week between the two cities and connect to 31 destinations across North Africa, the Arabian Gulf, the Indian Subcontinent and Asia

• World’s media gather in UAE capital to witness arrival of flagship aircraft
• Both aircraft carry distinctive new ‘Facets of Abu Dhabi’ livery
• First public viewing of world’s most luxurious cabin – The Residence by Etihad
• New Etihad Airways cabin crew uniform unveiled at fashion show

Abu Dhabi | December 18, 2014– Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has capped an incredible 12 months by unveiling its first Airbus A380 and Boeing 787 aircraft to more than 200 of the world’s media in Abu Dhabi.

The doors to the airline’s two new flagship aircraft – in the distinctive new ‘Facets of Abu Dhabi’ livery – were opened for the first time to reveal the new cabin interiors, which include the ultra-luxurious Residence by Etihad™, the only three-room suite in the sky.

Etihad Airways also unveiled a new cabin crew uniform at a spectacular catwalk fashion show. It’s the first major uniform re-launch since the airline’s formation in 2003 and incorporates the same colours used for the cabin interior and new aircraft livery.

James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ President and Chief Executive Officer, said: “As we have done so many times in our short history, we are reshaping the landscape of modern air travel in our own way.

“Today is the culmination of many years of hard work and tremendous endeavour by hundreds of people both in our airline and outside.

“With the launch of these aircraft, we usher in a new era of unparalleled luxury, comfort and service. These innovations represent our vision for the future.”

In addition to the media event at Abu Dhabi airport, Etihad Airways is also hosting an event for travel industry partners and one for the airline’s staff today, ensuring that by the end of the day more than 1,500 people will have toured the two new aircraft.

The fashion show saw 22 Etihad Airways cabin crew showcasing the new uniform which has been designed by Italian couturier, Ettore Bilotta. It combines elegance, comfort and practicality and the colours are derived from the new brand identity.

Bilotta, in collaboration with the airline’s Guest Services and Guest Experience divisions, chose a warm chocolate brown as the base colour for the different uniform variations.

A deep purple colour is added for cabin crew and lounge staff, and a burnt orange accent colour for ground crews and Special Services personnel.

Following today’s events in Abu Dhabi, the A380 and Boeing 787 aircraft will continue test operations before starting commercial flights. The A380 will operate daily to London Heathrow from 27 December and the 787 to Dusseldorf from 1 February 2015.

The entry into commercial service of the A380 will see the introduction of The Residence by Etihad™, a new cabin that has captured the imagination of the air travel industry since it was unveiled in May 2014.

The Residence by Etihad™ features a living room, separate ensuite shower room, and bedroom, and as another first in the airline industry, a dedicated Butler.

Measuring 125 square feet in total, The Residence by Etihad™ is located on the forward upper deck of the A380 and is for single or double occupancy.

The A380 is also the only Etihad Airways aircraft to offer the First Apartment which is a complete living space with a reclining lounge chair and an ottoman, which opens up to become a separate 80.5 inch long fully-flat bed.

The First Suite on the Etihad Airways B787 offers guests an enhanced suite with chilled mini-bar, complete privacy and centre seats which can be joined to create a double bed.

A total of 70 Business Studios are located on the upper deck of the A380, and the B787 has 28 Business Studios, all offering aisle access and a fully flat bed of up to 80.5 inches long.

The Economy Smart Seat also debuts on the A380 and Boeing 787 and has enhanced comfort with the unique ‘fixed wing’ headrest on each seat.

Abu Dhabi | December 18, 2014– Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, has selected Abu Dhabi-based FGB and The National Commercial Bank (NCB) of Saudi Arabia to provide financing for the purchase of a number of its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, the first of which was on show today at Abu Dhabi International Airport.

The financing from FGB and NCB is provided through Sharia-compliant facilities following a request for proposal issued in May this year, which saw high levels of interest from global banks and leasing companies.

FGB and NCB won the mandate for the financing based on very competitive pricing and terms against stiff international competition. Etihad Airways currently has 109 aircraft in its fleet and a further 97 Boeing aircraft on order, including 71 B787s.

James Rigney, Chief Financial Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “The deal with FGB and NCB provides financing that enables us to expand our fleet significantly and deliver an unrivalled product on the new Boeing 787, creating an unmatchable guest experience through our first-of-kind, re-modelled First, Business and Economy Class cabins.

“FGB has been a key financial partner over the years and we are pleased to take this partnership forward. We also welcome NCB on its first direct financing agreement with us as an important new partner and look forward to growing our relationship with them.”

Steven Perry, Head of Debt Markets and Syndications for FGB, said: “FGB has significantly enhanced its aviation financing knowledge and expertise, putting us on par with international investors in this competitive sphere. As one of the leading banks in the UAE, we are thrilled to be working with Etihad Airways to support the continued development of the UAE economy through growing our aviation sector together.”

Yasir AbuSulayman, Head of Structured Finance for NCB said: “NCB is a significant financier in the regional aviation market and is proud to be involved with Etihad Airways for this milestone finance deal. NCB looks forward to growing our relationship with Etihad Airways.”

The Boeing 787-9 will enter into service next year to operate flights between Abu Dhabi and Düsseldorf and between Abu Dhabi and Doha. The Boeing 787-9 will be introduced on six of the airline’s routes from February to June 2015, including Washington D.C., Mumbai, Brisbane and Moscow.

Abu Dhabi | December 18, 2014– Etihad Airways, the UAE’s national carrier, has received financing from Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB) for its first Airbus A380-800 aircraft, which was showcased to the public for the first time today at Abu Dhabi International Airport.

ADCB is providing financing for one A380-800 aircraft following a competitive global request for proposal. The A380 is the first of a fleet of ten A380s on order from Etihad Airways to enter service.

James Rigney, Chief Financial Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “We are thrilled to secure strong interest from Abu Dhabi’s local banks as we continue our journey of expansion. The new A380 marks the pinnacle of our service development with the unveiling of the Residence by Etihad bringing a new level of luxury to the skies never before seen in aviation history.

“ADCB delivered competitive, market leading terms and conditions – a reflection of the growing sophistication of local banks’ knowledge and expertise that is now giving them the competitive advantage.”

During the past ten years, Etihad Airways has raised more than US$8 billion from 68 financial institutions to fund the purchase of aircraft and engines.

Ala’a Eraiqat, CEO and Board Member of ADCB, said: “We are delighted to have financed Etihad Airways’ first A380-800 following a competitive bidding process and share the success of this state of the art aircraft. Together, we are championing Abu Dhabi’s commitment towards excellence and innovation, each in our respective fields, creating a legacy for the UAE. The A380 financing has been structured entirely in-house by ADCB meeting the highest aircraft financing standards.”

Earlier this year, Etihad Airways delivered a series of comprehensive training seminars to UAE banks to share and promote local, specialist knowledge of aircraft financing.

Auckland, New Zealand | November 12, 2014– The days of costly and frustrating airline inflight entertainment (IFE) system failure due to headphone pin breakage are a thing of the past for Etihad Airways. The UAE flag carrier is the first airline to implement the new Magnetic Jacks designed and manufactured by Phitek. This magnetic connector product has been adopted by Panasonic as a Remote Jack Unit in their latest IFE offering.

The new Remote Jack Unit is reverse compatible with most traditional ARINC headphone types and all headphones equipped with Magnetic Plugs (MJ-Plugs).

Mechanical pin breakage and the resulting IFE system failure at the aircraft seat is completely eliminated when Phitek’s Magnetic Jack Units are used in combination with passenger headphones equipped with MJ-Plugs™. If passengers get up with their headphones still attached, the force exerted separates the magnetic combination, releasing the headphones without any damage.

Before accepting the Phitek Magnetic Jack, Etihad Airways conducted extensive flight trials using their existing Yes-Hope headphones fitted with MJ-Plugs.

Etihad Airways’ Manager BFE Program and Projects, Quentin Couturier, said: “The results of our 60-day trial were encouraging with no defects logged and no Magnetic Jack replacements required. Our survey also revealed a positive response from our guests with a majority expressing their overall satisfaction.”

The MJ-Plug is an open design, available to all headphone manufacturers, making the operation of magnetic jack units a seamless and cost effective option for airlines.

United Arab Emirates | June 30, 2014– Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, last week celebrated a major milestone as the fastest growing airline in commercial aviation history, when it took delivery of its 100th and 101st aircraft on the same day.

The one hundredth aircraft, a new Airbus A321-231 (registration A6-AEC), was delivered from the Airbus Finkenwerder facility in Hamburg. On arrival in Abu Dhabi, the aircraft was welcomed by over 500 Etihad Airways employees at a specially organised photo-shoot to mark the occasion.

James Hogan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “This is an important day for an airline which launched operations just over ten years ago. Etihad Airways continues to grow, to prosper and to lead the way in innovation and service. Today, we fly the most technologically advanced and fuel efficient aircraft available, setting new standards in comfort and reliability.”

The airline now operates three Airbus A321s, with seven more on order. This A321 delivery is joined by the airline’s 101st aircraft, an Airbus A320-200 (registration A6-EIX). Both aircraft are equipped with sharklets, which are blended winglets at each wingtip, designed to enhance the payload-range performance, allowing a significant reduction in fuel-burn.

In November 2013, Etihad Airways placed its largest ever aircraft order at the Dubai Airshow with a value of US$67 billion for up to 199 aircraft and 294 engines.

The airline will take delivery of its first Boeing 787-9 and Airbus A380 aircraft in October and December of this year respectively. These aircraft will feature Etihad Airways’ revolutionary new cabins, which were unveiled on 4 May 2014, including for the first time in the airline industry, a luxurious self-contained three room cabin on the A380 known as ‘The Residence’, featuring a separate living room, bathroom and double bedroom.

June 25, 2014 — Alitalia and Etihad Airways today confirmed that they have agreed the principal terms and conditions of a proposed transaction whereby Etihad Airways will acquire a 49 per cent equity stake in Alitalia.

The airlines will now move to finalise the transactional documents, that will include the agreed upon conditions, as soon as possible. The conclusion of the investment is subject to final regulatory approvals.

Los Angeles, Ca | June 2, 2014– Global Eagle Entertainment Inc. (Nasdaq: ENT) announced today that its subsidiary IFP has entered into a multi-year agreement with Etihad Airways to provide inflight entertainment (IFE) content programming across its entire fleet, as well as to its partner airlines Air Serbia and Air Seychelles.

Starting this quarter, IFP will provide a rich and varied program of regional and international content including popular movies, TV shows and audio programming to support the airline’s world-renowned guest experience.

“We’re thrilled to have been selected by Etihad Airways for its content services,” added Walé Adepoju, Executive Vice President of Customer Solutions for Global Eagle Entertainment. “Etihad represents the epitome of sophisticated flying, and we look forward to enhancing their guests’ experience through an IFE offering which showcases our expertise and commitment to providing outstanding content products and services.”

“As the national airline of the United Arab Emirates and one of the world’s leading premium airlines, Etihad Airways prides itself in providing a superior guest experience which is evocative of our brand,” explained Peter Baumgartner, Chief Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways. “Exceptional entertainment is an integral part of our leading onboard product, and IFP’s compelling content offering and proficient delivery support will make them an outstanding partner for us.”

United Arab Emirates | May 4, 2014 — Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has announced the first destinations for its first Airbus A380 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft.

The Abu Dhabi-based airline’s first A380 will operate commercially to London Heathrow from December 2014. A second A380 will operate on the same route from Q1 2015. By the end of 2015, Etihad Airways will have five of the type in operation, with plans to also introduce A380 operations to both Sydney and New York JFK.

The first Etihad Airways B787-9 will enter commercial service in December 2014, with a second aircraft entering service in January 2015. As with the A380, by the end of 2015, Etihad Airways will have five of the type in operation. The first B787s will initially be deployed on Washington DC, Düsseldorf and Mumbai, with further route announcements to follow.

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways’ Chief Commercial Officer, said: “The A380 will be used to provide additional seats on existing routes where there is a need for increased capacity, and in particular, high demand for first and business class travel.”

Etihad Airways has a total of 10 A380s on firm order. Four A380s will arrive in 2015, three in 2016 and two in 2017.

Each aircraft is designed to carry 498 passengers in four living spaces on the aircraft. This includes two VIP customers in The Residence by Etihad™, nine customers in the innovative First Class Apartments, 70 customers in the new Business Class Studios, and 417 customers in Economy Class.

Mr. Baumgartner added:  “Today is an historic day in the Etihad Airways story. We are the fastest growing airline in commercial aviation, and by unveiling our plans for this magnificent aircraft and setting new benchmarks in onboard product, service, hospitality and style, we have redefined what flying is all about.”

Etihad Airways also has major plans for the B787 which enters the fleet in Q4 2014.

The mostly composite aircraft will be deployed from December between Abu Dhabi and Düsseldorf, and services to Washington DC and Mumbai will commence in January 2015.  Services to other cities will be confirmed in 2015 as more B787s enter the airline’s aircraft fleet.

The airline has a total of 71 B787s scheduled for delivery between the end of 2014 and 2023, including 41 B787-9s and 30 B787-10s, making it the largest operator of the aircraft type in the world.

Two B787s are scheduled for delivery in Q4 2014 with three due to arrive in 2015, three in 2016 and nine in 2017.  All five initial B787 deliveries will have three living spaces aboard the aircraft, configured to carry 235 customers.

There are eight First Suites in First Class, 28 Business Studios in Business Class and 199 Economy Smart Seats in Economy Class.

Mr. Baumgartner said:  “The B787 is a fantastic addition to our fleet and, similar to the A380, it sets new standards in terms of passenger comfort, product and, crucially, economics.

“Over the coming years this next-generation aircraft will be used by Etihad Airways to launch flights to new destinations, add capacity in existing markets and progressively replace existing, less-efficient aircraft.”

Some of the initial Etihad Airways A380 and B787 flights may be booked from today, online at etihad.com, through the Etihad Airways contact centre, or via travel agents.

• First twin-aisle launch in history to achieve 259 orders and commitments

• 777X will be the largest, most-efficient twin-engine jet in the world

• Emirates, Etihad Airways, Lufthansa and Qatar Airways commit to 777X

• The 777X advances the world’s most efficient, flexible twin-aisle family

Dubai, UAE | November 17, 2013/PRNewswire/–Boeing [NYSE:BA] today launched the 777X program at the 2013 Dubai Airshow with a record-breaking number of customer orders and commitments for the newest member of its twin-aisle product family. Agreements for 259 airplanes from four customers across Europe and the Middle East provide a strong foundation to support development and production of the airplane.

Representing the largest product launch in commercial jetliner history by dollar value, 777X orders and commitments include Lufthansa with 34 airplanes; Etihad Airways with 25; Qatar Airways with 50 and Emirates with 150 airplanes. The combined value of the agreements is more than $95 billion at list prices.

“We are proud to partner with each of these esteemed airlines to launch the 777X – the largest and most-efficient twin-engine jetliner in the world,” said Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Ray Conner. “Its ground-breaking engine technologies and all-new composite wing will deliver unsurpassed value and growth potential to our customers.”

The 777X builds on the passenger-preferred and market-leading 777, which today commands 55 percent of market share in its category in terms of backlog, and 71 percent of the in-service fleet worldwide. The 777X family includes the 777-8X and the 777-9X, both designed to respond to market needs and customer preferences.

The 777X builds on the best-in-class dispatch reliability from today’s 777, as well as offering more market coverage and revenue capability that surpasses the competition. The 777-8X competes directly with the A350-1000, while the 777-9X is in a class by itself.

Opening new growth opportunities for airlines, the 777-9X offers seating for more than 400 passengers, depending on an airline’s configuration choices. With a range of more than 8,200 nautical miles (15,185 km), the airplane will have the lowest operating cost per seat of any commercial airplane.
The second member of the family, the 777-8X, will be the most flexible jet in the world. The airplane will seat 350 passengers and offer an incredible range capability of more than 9,300 nautical miles (17,220 km). In addition, the airplane will have unmatched takeoff and payload capability compared to the competition.

“The airplane will build on the market-leading 777 and will provide superior operating economics,” said Conner. “The airplane will be 12 percent more fuel efficient than any competing airplane, necessary in today’s competitive environment.”

The 777X introduces the latest technologies in multiple places, including the most advanced commercial engine ever – the GE9X by GE Aviation – and an all-new high-efficiency composite wing that has a longer span than today’s 777. The airplane’s folding, raked wingtip and optimized span deliver greater efficiency, significant fuel savings and complete airport gate compatibility.

Like the 787 Dreamliner which was launched as the 7E7, the 777X will be formally named at a later date. Design of the 777X is underway and suppliers will be named in the coming months. Production is set to begin in 2017, with first delivery targeted for 2020.

• Abu Dhabi-based airline to be launch customer for 777X, first to order 777-8X
• Carrier places 1,000th 787 Dreamliner order, becomes world’s largest 787 airline customer

Dubai, UAE | November 17, 2013/PRNewswire/– Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Etihad Airways today announced an order for 56 widebody airplanes with options and purchase rights for 26 additional airplanes at the start of the 2013 Dubai Airshow. The order is valued at a total of $26.7 billion at list prices.

The Abu Dhabi-based carrier’s order includes 25 777X airplanes, comprising 17 777-9Xs and eight 777-8Xs, subject to program launch. Etihad Airways is the first airline to order the 777-8X and will be a launch customer of the airplane, which is expected to enter service around the end of the decade. The order includes options and purchase rights for 12 additional 777X airplanes.

In addition, the airline has ordered 30 787-10s, the newest and largest member of the 787 Dreamliner family. When today’s order is combined with the carrier’s previous order for 41 787-9s, Etihad Airways becomes the world’s largest airline customer for the Dreamliner family with a total of 71 787s on order. The order includes options and purchase rights for an additional 12 787-10s.

Today’s announcement also marks the 1,000th order for the 787 Dreamliner family since its launch in 2004. The 787 has reached this milestone faster than any other twin-aisle airplane in aviation history.

Etihad’s order also includes one additional 777 Freighter for its cargo fleet, with options for two additional 777 Freighters.

“Boeing has been a long-term strategic partner for Etihad throughout that journey, playing an integral role in our growth, said Etihad Airways President and CEO James Hogan. “I am delighted we are extending our relationship, bringing industry-leading aircraft into our modern fleet.”
“We are very proud of our relationship with Etihad Airways which began nine years ago with an order for five 777-300ERs,” said Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Ray Conner. “It is gratifying that as one of the world’s fastest growing airlines, Etihad continues to have confidence in Boeing’s products by ordering the 777X as well as by increasing its order for the 787. We look forward to further strengthening this partnership as Etihad continues to build its position as a forerunner in the global aviation industry.”

Advanced technology including a new composite wing, all-new engines and superior aerodynamics will result in the incredible fuel efficiency promised by the 777X family.

The 777-9X, with around 400 seats, will be the largest and most efficient twin-engine commercial jet in the world with 12 percent lower fuel consumption and 10 percent lower operating costs over the competition. It will have the lowest operating cost per seat of any commercial airplane and no competitor in its market segment.

The 777-8X will be the most flexible commercial jet in the world with breakthrough economics and greater range capability than today’s 777.
The 787-10 is the third and longest member of the super-efficient 787 family. With its greater passenger and cargo capacity, high degree of commonality and its passenger-pleasing features, the 787-10 will complement the family while setting a new benchmark for fuel efficiency and operating economics. The 787-10 will be 25 percent more efficient than airplanes of its size today and more than 10 percent better than anything offered by the competition for the future.

Final assembly and flight test of the 787-10 are set to begin in 2017, with first delivery targeted for 2018.

Celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, Etihad Airways is one of the fastest-growing airlines in the world, expanding its fleet and network across the Middle East, Europe, Africa, Asia Pacific and North and South America. Etihad’s fleet today includes 17 Boeing 777-300ERs and three 777 Freighters.

• Another vote of confidence from a leading Middle East carrier for Airbus

November 17, 2013– Etihad Airways, national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has announced a firm order for 50 A350 XWBs, 36 A320neo aircraft and one A330-200F as part of its fleet modernization strategy. The contract was signed today at the 2013 Dubai Airshow by James Hogan, Etihad Airways CEO and Fabrice Brégier, Airbus President and CEO.

The order comprises 40 A350-900s, ten A350-1000s, one A330-200F, 26 A321neo’s and 10 A320neo’s. Etihad currently operates a fleet of 23 A320 Family aircraft, 25 A330s and 11 A340s. The new aircraft will fit seamlessly into the airline’s existing long-haul fleet delivering operational efficiencies and cost savings.

James Hogan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said, “Ten years ago this month, we celebrated our inaugural flight from Abu Dhabi using an Airbus A330.

“A decade later, we have grown into one of the world’s leading airlines and the importance of Airbus to our fast-growing operations has never been stronger. We have more than 60 Airbus aircraft in our fleet today, and this latest order is testament to the continued strength of our partnership.

“As one of the first airlines set to receive the much-awaited Airbus A350-1000, we look forward to benefiting from its operational efficiencies and cost savings.”

“We are delighted that Etihad Airways has consistently maintained its confidence in the full range of Airbus’ modern aircraft family. This is highlighted by today’s new order for the fuel-efficient A320neo Family, to the versatile A330-200F and up to the all-new, efficient A350 XWB Family,” said Fabrice Brégier, Airbus President and CEO. “We look forward to seeing Etihad benefit from the unbeatable economics and best-in-class comfort all our aircraft offer, ensuring the continued success of Etihad Airways as a leading airline for the years to come.”

The A350 XWB (Xtra Wide-Body) is an all-new mid-size long range product line comprising three versions. The new Family, whose fuselage cross-section is optimized to accommodate Airbus’ 18-inch economy seat-width for long range passenger comfort, will also bring a 25 percent step change in efficiency compared with existing aircraft in this size category. Scheduled for entry-into-service in 2014, the A350 XWB to date has already won 764 firm orders from 39 customers worldwide.

The A320neo is offered as an option for the A320 Family and incorporates new more efficient engines and large “Sharklet” wing tip devices, which together will deliver up to 15 percent in fuel savings. At the end of October 2013, firm orders for the NEO stood at 2,487 from 44 customers, making it the fastest selling commercial airliner ever and underlining its market leadership position.

The A330-200F is the all-freight version of the best-selling A330 Family. It is the world’s most modern mid-size freighter and can carry 70 tonnes of payload with a range capability of up to 4,000nm. To date, Airbus has won more than 1,280 orders for the various versions of the A330, with over 1,010 aircraft currently flying with more than 100 operators worldwide.

October 30, 2013–The new live channels are BBC World News, BBC Arabic, euronews and Sport 24, which are available from November 1. CNBC, Japan’s NHK World Premium, and CNN, will be introduced during November; and Sky News Arabia will follow in the coming months.

The highlight of the sports coverage are the final three races of the Formula 1 season with the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix held this Sunday, November 3, at Yas Marina Circuit, as well as the US Grand Prix on Sunday, November 17, and the Brazil Grand Prix on Sunday, November 24.

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways’ Chief Commercial Officer, said: “We are delighted to broadcast this weekend’s Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on many of our aircraft, ensuring that passengers who are flying on race day won’t miss any of the action from Yas Marina Circuit.”

In addition to the Formula 1, passengers can also watch a wealth of live top sporting action this November including the ATP World Tour Finals, English Premier League and German Bundesliga matches, and Euroleague Basketball.

The major sports coverage continues in 2014 and includes the Australian Open, French Open and US Open tennis championships, the Winter Olympics, the Masters from Augusta and Ryder Cup golf, and the FIFA World Cup from Brazil.

Mr Baumgartner added: “In-flight entertainment is a key part of the guest travel experience and the introduction of the eight live channels, from brands such as Sky News Arabia, CNN and the BBC, as well as top global action on Sport 24, will be a fantastic addition to Etihad Airways’ flights.”

All eight news and sport channels will be available on 21 Etihad Airways widebody aircraft by November 7, which will increase to 37 widebody aircraft by the end of 2014.

Abu Dahabi | August 7, 2013– Etihad Airways has become the fastest-growing carrier in commercial aviation history, and one of the most successful, by “rewriting the rulebook”, the airline’s President and Chief Executive Officer, James Hogan, said today in his keynote address at the 2013 CAPA Australia Pacific Aviation Summit held in Sydney.

Mr Hogan’s address in Australia came just days after Etihad Airways announced an historic deal with the Government of Serbia to buy 49 per cent of Air Serbia, the country’s rebranded national airline, and a five-year management contract to run it.

Eschewing the traditional airline model and legacy alliances, Mr Hogan presented a new business model for global aviation describing the Abu Dhabi-based carrier’s unique strategy of building scale through organic growth, codeshare partnerships and minority equity investments in other carriers.

“There is ample evidence to show that the traditional airline model and legacy airline alliances are no longer relevant to today’s operating environment and that progress for the industry is unlikely without radical change,” Mr Hogan said. “A sustainable future for global aviation relies on a bold vision and a willingness to break with tradition and past practices.”

Mr Hogan said that global reach was beyond the capability of any single airline and that progress would come only through partnerships.

“Including Jet Airways, where we’re still going through the regulatory process, Etihad Airways will have six equity and 46 codeshare partners, offering a pool of over 96 million guests and a choice of more than 410 destinations on six continents, serviced by a fleet of approximately 500 modern aircraft,” said Mr Hogan.

“Cooperation includes joint procurement of assets, services and supplies such as aircraft, engines, fuel and insurance, as well as cooperation on issues such as maintenance, crew training and sales activities, which reduces costs for all participating carriers. This is real value-add for our equity alliance and I am confident it is the way forward,” Mr Hogan said.

“We are delighted to welcome Air Serbia to our equity alliance, and look forward to receiving final approvals from regulators in India of our investment in Jet Airways,” he added.

In addition to the actions which airlines must take to ensure their own futures, Mr Hogan said other broader changes were required by governments and regulators including workforce deregulation, reform of airspace management, technology innovation, more investment in infrastructure and greater collaboration with industry.

He said one major and continuing issue for the air transport industry was constrained access to major airports, many of which were now at maximum capacity and could not be expanded, or would take many years to upgrade.

Mr Hogan said one option which should be considered was selective easing of noise curfews at major airports. In some cases, he said, curfews were introduced up to 50 years ago to mitigate the noise of 1950s-era jets including Boeing 707s, DC-8s and VC10s. However, regulators did not consider the billions of dollars invested by airlines on low noise, low emission aircraft such as today’s Airbus A380s and Boeing 787s, which remain constrained by the same noise curfews as the very first jet airliners. “Perhaps, to ease airport congestion, there should be curfew relief for next-generation, low-noise aircraft,” Mr Hogan said.

· Etihad Airways to have access to 10 cities in South Africa and African continent
· South African Airways to codeshare on 12 Etihad Airways flights to Abu Dhabi and beyond
· Airlines to explore joint procurement, training and maintenance opportunities
· Provision for reciprocal ‘earn and burn’ with frequent flyer programs

May 7, 2013– Etihad Airways and South African Airways have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) allowing the two airlines to introduce a comprehensive range of codeshare and interline air services as well as explore synergy and efficiency opportunities.

Initially Etihad Airways will place its ‘EY’ code on flights from Johannesburg to 10 South African Airways destinations across South Africa and the African continent as well as South America.

In return South African Airways will place its ‘SA’ code on 12 of Etihad Airways’ global routes flying from the UAE national carrier’s Abu Dhabi home-base.

The agreement also makes provision for passengers to earn and redeem miles through the airlines’ frequent flyer programs.

Secondary phases of the cooperation agreement will explore code sharing to more cities, closer synergies and efficiencies in the key commercial areas of procurement, drive incremental revenue opportunities, ground handling as well as training.

James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ President and Chief Executive Officer, said: “This impressive, multilayered, partnership will enable Etihad Airways and South African Airways to achieve significant goals in several different global markets as well as collaborate on a number of key commercial initiatives.

“This strategy, of working closely with partner airlines to serve secondary cities in a market, has been highly successful for Etihad Airways around the world and we look forward to build upon our already strong relationship with the team at South African Airways to extend our footprint in the strategically critical African market.”

Nico Bezuidenhout, SAA’s acting Chief Executive Officer, said: “This extensive commercial agreement will enable SAA to access the vast majority of Etihad Airways global markets. We are pleased to build upon the commercial areas of the agreement which are fundamental to a modern airline partnership.

Ms Dudu Myeni, SAA’s acting Chairperson, said: “This partnership provides SAA customers with vital, instantaneous, and seamless access to 12 key destinations in the Middle East and beyond. It will also broaden SAA’s network through alliances and strategic partnerships, which, is our long term view.”

The first phase of the agreement will see the ‘SA’ code placed on the Etihad Airways flights between Johannesburg and Abu Dhabi, as well as on flights to 12 cities on Etihad Airways’ worldwide network that includes destinations in Asia, Europe and the Middle East.

Etihad Airways will place its ‘EY’ code on South African Airways’ flights from Johannesburg to Cape Town, Durban, East London and Port Elizabeth, as well as to Livingston, Lusaka, Ndola, Harare, and Victoria Falls. Outside the African continent Etihad Airways will place its code on South African Airways’ flights to Sao Paulo.

Collectively, the two airline groups expect to carry more than 20 million passengers in 2013.

The agreed cooperation between the two airlines is in line with Etihad Airways’ highly successful global alliance strategy in which the Abu Dhabi-based airline works with partner airlines to identify potential areas of cost savings as well as opportunities to achieve economies of scale.

The tie-up coincides with the signing of codeshare agreements between Etihad Airways’ equity alliance partners, Air Seychelles and Jet Airways*, and South African Airways.

Etihad Airway also signed a partnership agreement with Kenya Airways, the national flag carrier of Kenya, and places the Etihad Airways “EY” code on up to 27 Kenya Airways destinations across East and Central Africa.

*Subject to regulatory approval

May 2, 2013– Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has opened a line maintenance base at Singapore’s Changi International Airport, the carrier’s eighth outside Abu Dhabi.

Equipped with the latest technology, the new facility will perform all scheduled and non-scheduled line maintenance for Etihad Airways’ daily flights operating to Singapore from both Abu Dhabi and Brisbane.

This includes transit, daily and weekly checks, scheduled engineering services, and fault repairs for aircraft systems and cabin issues.

From its UAE hub, Etihad Airways operates daily return flights to Singapore and onwards to state capital of Queensland, Australia.

Captain Richard Hill, Chief Operations Officer at Etihad Airways, said: “Singapore is a key part of Etihad Airways’ expanding global network and our decision to establish an engineering facility at Changi reflects our continuing investment in operations there and in the wider region.

“Today’s opening also enhances Etihad Airways’ position as a world-class Technical Handling Company. With existing state-of-the-art maintenance facilities at Melbourne and Sydney in Australia where we also service other carriers, our Changi maintenance base will further strengthen the scale of our global operations.”

Etihad Airways is deploying a team of Abu Dhabi-trained line maintenance aircraft engineers to be based at the new Singapore facility.

The airline’s existing line maintenance facilities are in Dublin, Chicago, Lahore, London-Heathrow, Manchester, Melbourne and Sydney.

Flights to Singapore and Brisbane commenced in September 2007 with three weekly flights, and in January 2013, the service was enhanced to a daily return operation.

Abu Dhabi | January 8, 2013– Etihad Airways has started the New Year by setting a record for the number of passengers carried across its worldwide network in a single day.

The record was set on Saturday 5 January 2013 when 33,802 passengers flew with the Abu Dhabi-based airline, beating the previous record of 33,766 set on Saturday 14 July 2012.

Etihad Airways capped an impressive festive holiday season with Thursday 3 and Friday 4 January 2013 also entering the airlines top 10 ranking for busiest ever days, with 32,622 and 32,918 flying each day respectively.

Two dates in January have also entered Etihad Airways’ top 10 for highest ever load factors. Flights across the airline’s network were 89.2 per cent full on Saturday 5 January (#4 in the top 10) and 88.1 per cent full on Friday 4 January (#9 in the top 10).

James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ President and Chief Executive Officer, said: “It has been a busy start to 2013 for Etihad Airways and it is highly satisfying to beat our previous record for passengers carried in a single day.”

Last week Etihad Airways announced it had flown total of 10.29 million in 2012, an increase of 1.88 million passengers from 2011.

Mr Hogan added: “Etihad Airways carried record numbers of passengers in 2012, was voted World’s Leading Airline at the World Travel Awards for an unprecedented fourth consecutive year. Our challenge is to build on these achievements during the coming 12 months.”

Etihad Airways will install new state-of-the-art technology on its long and ultra long haul aircraft which can monitor the condition of passengers who display signs of sickness that might require immediate medical attention.

The “Tempus IC” system allows cabin crew to gather vital information about a passenger’s health quickly and efficiently. The data covers a wide range of the passenger’s ‘vital signs’ including blood pressure and an electrocardiogram. It also allows the crew to take photo imagery.

That information is then transmitted to a medical team of global experts specialised in assistance in in-flight medical contingencies. Following their advice the crew will take a decision about what to do next for the passenger and the flight.

Captain Richard Hill, Etihad Airways’ chief operations officer, said: “Passenger welfare and safety is of the utmost importance to Etihad Airways and the introduction of the Tempus IC system will ensure that when medical emergencies do occur they are evaluated quickly.

“This helps ensure that the passenger can receive the appropriate treatment when the aircraft lands, whether this is as a diversion or at its final destination.”

Etihad will introduce the Tempus IC technology, designed and manufactured by UK-based RDT, on its A340 and Boeing 777 aircraft and then subsequently across the remaining long and ultra long haul fleet.

Grahame Fever, Commercial Aviation Sales Director RDT, said: “We are delighted that Etihad has chosen RDT ‘s Tempus on-board telemedicine technology.

“We know from our existing Tempus customers and the in-flight trials with Etihad cabin crew that Tempus technology, with its unique ease-of-use help screens and features, makes a significant difference to quality and speed of on-board medical care.”