Etihad Airways, China Eastern Airlines Sign Joint Venture Agreement

By Pierre Bertrand

Etihad Airways and China Eastern Airlines have signed an agreement to form a joint venture which is expected to start operating early next year.

The agreement will enable both airlines to combine and develop their networks including expanded options to cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Xi'an, and Kunming, as well as to the United Arab Emirates and other Middle Eastern and African destinations, Etihad said.

The deal is the first such joint venture agreement between a Middle Eastern and a Chinese airline, the Abu Dhabi-based carrier said.

Etihad said that formation of the joint venture is subject to governmental approvals and that it wouldn't involve an equity investment.

"Etihad and China Eastern Airlines will implement the joint venture cooperation in early 2025 when both teams secure all necessary regulatory clearances," Etihad said.

It added that the JV will enable passengers to earn frequent flyer points and redeem rewards when using either airline from the last quarter of this year.

Write to Pierre Bertrand at [e-mail]

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

06-05-24 0924ET