Etihad Airways and China Eastern Airlines have announced the signing of a Joint Venture (JV) to cement the strategic partnership between the two airlines. This marks the first commercial JV between a Middle Eastern airline and a Chinese airline.
According to the statement, the Etihad Airways–China Eastern Airlines JV will allow the airlines to jointly develop and grow routes between the UAE and China, resulting in a stronger combined network.
“This partnership is more than the expansion of routes; it is about creating lasting and meaningful connections between our two nations which will stand for decades to come,” said Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of Etihad Aviation Group.
Etihad and China Eastern Airlines will implement the joint venture cooperation in early 2025 when both teams secure all necessary regulatory clearances. Additionally, both airlines will introduce full reciprocity to their existing frequent flyer programs in the final quarter of 2024, allowing passengers to seamlessly earn points and redeem rewards when flying with either airline.
“This year marks the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the UAE,” said China Eastern Airlines Chairman Wang Zhiqing. “Both countries continue to develop and strengthen the high-value, strategic collaboration on the Belt and Road Initiative, and this momentum creates opportunities and motivation for deepening cooperation between China Eastern Airlines and Etihad Airways.”
