Etihad Airways launches preferred partner program

Etihad Airways has launched an innovative preferred partner program which will see the UAE’s national airline strengthen partnerships with key global and regional brands. 

The partnership will be activated across the many touch points of the Etihad Airways passenger experience, on the ground and in the skies. 

These touch points include direct communications, etihad.com, the chauffeur service, check-in, lounges, as well as Etihad Airways’ in-flight publications and in-flight entertainment. 

Rotana Hotels, the Preferred Regional Hotel Partner, joins Hertz, Preferred Car Rental Partner, and Sky News Arabia, Preferred Regional Media Partner, among Etihad Airways’ first partners within the program. 

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways’ Chief Commercial Officer, said: “The Preferred Partner program is an attractive proposition for other like-minded brands looking for an opportunity to expand their own awareness and exposure.” 

“Etihad Airways already has several partners on the Etihad Guest loyalty program which enjoy selective access to the airline’s communication assets and this is an exciting opportunity for those brands to expand their reach even further or for new brands to come on board.” 

“The companies that will join Rotana, Hertz and Sky News Arabia, within the new program, will enjoy the benefits of exposure to millions of Etihad Airways customers.” 

Omer Kaddouri, Rotana’s Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, said: “Rotana has always worked very closely with Etihad Airways in promoting Abu Dhabi as a “preferred destination” across the world and we are pleased to make this partnership official and to support the program. 

“We are both home grown companies expanding worldwide and the brand association makes perfect sense for us.” 

Following the appointment of Rotana as the preferred hotel partner, Etihad Airways is expected to appoint other partners in fields such as insurance, hospitality services and telecoms.