Jat Airways-Etihad deal secures Jat and Serbia's future, making Etihad's 6th equity alliance member

The outlook for troubled Serbian national carrier Jat Airways has improved significantly following the recent signing of an agreement with Etihad Airways.

The partnership will allow the modernisation of Jat's fleet and changes to its network, while also closely working with Etihad to improve its efficiencies, revenue management and cost reduction measures. Abu Dhabi-based Etihad is also negotiating to acquire an equity stake in the small Serbian carrier with a deal expected to be announced on 22-Jul-2013.

If consummated, this will be Etihad's sixth equity arrangement, following those with Aer Lingus, airberlin, Jet Airways (pending), Air Seychelles and Virgin Australia.