Etihad Airways sees partnerships as a key point of differentiation, driving revenue and cutting cost

Etihad Airways CEO James Hogan, speaking at the CAPA Australia Pacific Aviation Summit, stated (07-Aug-2013) the carrier's partnership with other airlines is a key point of differentiation with the rest of the industry and other Gulf sixth freedom carriers. Etihad Airways has moved into profitability by starting with a "clean sheet of paper" and combining the right structure, financing and partnerships, according to Mr Hogan. The carrier focuses on organic growth, codeshare partnerships and equity investment in other carriers. Equity investment and other partnerships provides that carrier with access, enables rapid expansion via established brands, integration of networks and passenger feed. Strategy is to complement partner carriers to improve revenue and reduce costs. Revenue from partners has increased 57% year-on-year in 1H2013.