Fitch Ratings has given Etihad Airways a long-term Issuer Default Rating (IDR) of ‘A’ with a Stable Outlook, following a detailed independent analysis of the airline’s business, commercial performance and equity alliance strategy.
James Hogan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “The Fitch A rating is further independent recognition of the strength of this business and of our strategy.
“We have a clear mandate from our shareholder to deliver long-term, sustainable profitability. Our organic growth, boosted by our minority equity investment model, is increasingly being recognised as a highly effective strategy to deliver that return.
“We have already raised more than US$ 11 billion to support our growth, from more than 80 financial institutions around the world. We raise that finance on commercial terms, with no sovereign guarantees or letters of comfort.
“We have always operated with a high level of transparency to the financial community. Our first credit rating now takes that transparency a step further.
“This rating, which is based upon detailed analysis of our business performance and our strategy, will help international investors understand our story as we continue to expand our operations and raise additional external financing.
“The A rating also supports Etihad Airways’ strategy of fast-paced organic growth and establishing minority equity investments in key strategic partners around the world. These are delivering significant benefits, with our Etihad Partners delivering new revenues as well as major business synergies.”