Etihad introduces it's own alliance program

[markis10]

“Frequent flyers will benefit from the formation of Etihad Airways Partners as it will remove the complexity and confusion that exists within the global alliances.


“We’re aiming to deliver a consistent experience for frequent flyers when they travel, as well as a consistent framework for earning and using their miles.”


This will include standardised mileage and tier benefits across all partners, no blackout periods and priority services.

Initially, six airlines will participate in the new partnership - airberlin, Air Serbia, Air Seychelles, India’s Jet Airways, Darwin Airline, and Etihad Airways.

http://www.etihad.com/en/about-us/news/archive/2014/etihad-airways-partners-unveiled/

 

[markis10]

I wonder when VA will join, given the next step will involve bulk aircraft orders at very good discounts. ATW have just published a piece and notes the synergy benefits:

Etihad Airways Partners will also have access to economies of scale and operational synergies such as centers of excellence, shared sales teams in certain destinations, joint procurement of services and supplies, and shared pilot and cabin crew training at the Etihad Airways facilities in Abu Dhabi.

http://m.atwonline.com/airlines/eti..._campaign=Feed:+AtwDailyNews+(ATW+Daily+News)