Etihad Airways and Egyptair Expand Codeshare and Frequent Flyer Benefits
Etihad Airways and Egyptair have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance their codeshare agreement and frequent flyer benefits. Announced on June 11, 2024, the agreement aims to offer customers access to more destinations and improved services across both airlines' networks.
The MoU, signed by the CEOs of Etihad and Egyptair, paves the way for deeper commercial and operational ties between the two national carriers. This collaboration will enable customers to enjoy seamless travel experiences with more choices and higher quality services. Etihad CEO Antonoaldo Neves highlighted the potential for joint marketing campaigns and promotions that will reward customers of both airlines.
Egyptair Chairman and CEO Yehia Zakaria emphasized the strategic nature of this partnership, noting that it will benefit passengers and strengthen the relationship between Egypt and the UAE. The existing codeshare agreement already enhances connectivity between Egypt and the UAE, and the new MoU will extend these benefits to more destinations, including cities in Asia and Australia.
The expanded codeshare partnership will allow Egyptair travelers to access additional destinations within Etihad's network, while Etihad passengers will have more options to fly to destinations within Egyptair's network. Travelers can book their journeys on a single ticket and have their baggage checked through to their final destinations, simplifying the travel process.
In addition to the partnership with Egyptair, Etihad Airways has also signed an MoU with Moroccan national carrier Royal Air Maroc on June 3, 2024. This agreement aims to boost commercial ties and customer benefits by expanding the existing codeshare agreement to cover more routes in Morocco and Africa. The collaboration will also explore joint efforts in ground handling, maintenance, and engineering.
Furthermore, Egyptair has entered into a cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia's new startup airline, Riyadh Air, during the 80th IATA AGM. This partnership will enhance connectivity between Egypt and Saudi Arabia, offering passengers more travel options to various domestic and international destinations across the Middle East and Africa. Riyadh Air, set to begin operations next year, aims to connect Saudi Arabia to over 100 destinations worldwide by 2030.
These strategic partnerships signify a concerted effort by Etihad and Egyptair to enhance their service offerings and expand their global reach, benefiting passengers with more choices and seamless travel experiences.