Etihad Airways has partnered with China Eastern Airlines and the Tourism Authority of Thailand amid the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) event held in Dubai this week.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) national airline launched its joint venture with China Eastern Airlines, which was first disclosed in June 2024. The launch follows the successful arrival of China Eastern's inaugural flight from Shanghai to Abu Dhabi on April 28, 2025.
The service starts with four weekly frequencies and will increase to daily frequency starting September 12, 2025.
Additionally, the two airlines signed a new agreement between their respective loyalty programmes at the ATM event. From June 1, 2025, members of their respective loyalty programmes can earn and use points on the other party's networks.
"By combining our networks and aligning our loyalty programmes, we’re not only expanding choice and connectivity for our guests, but also setting the foundation for a new era of cooperation, innovation, and shared success across our markets," said Etihad Airways chief revenue and commercial officer Arik De.
China Eastern EVP Wan Qingchao added: “The launch of the Shanghai-Abu Dhabi route and the implementation of the joint business cooperation with Etihad Airways are key achievements in advancing our shared vision under the 'belt and road initiative'. Backed by a modern Zayed International Airport, we will further enhance our transit capabilities and improve travel convenience for passengers.”
The airline signed a memorandum of cooperation (MoC) with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to strengthen ties with the country. The agreement aims to promote tourism to Thailand through Etihad's network. The MoC will see both organisations collaborate activities and promotions to drive travel experiences in Thailand.
“Thailand is a very important market for Etihad, this is demonstrated by our continued expansion into the market with two new destinations this year, and further by this memorandum of cooperation with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to drive leisure travel,” said Etihad Airways CEO Antonoaldo Neves. “This agreement will help further strengthen our relationship with the Kingdom of Thailand and Etihad's position in the market.”
Amongst its 16 new routes launching this year, two new destinations in Thailand were announced. Operations to Krabi and Chiang Mai will begin in October and November, respectively.