United Kingdom
United States
Asia Pacific
Etihad – China Eastern joint venture takes flight
Gulf carrier Etihad Airways has kicked off its landmark Joint Venture with China Eastern Airlines.
The airlines marked the launch with a ceremony held at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai this week.
The launch follows the arrival of China Eastern’s inaugural MU237 flight from Shanghai to Abu Dhabi on 28 April.
This service operates four weekly flights before increasing to a daily frequency starting 12 September 2025.
Building upon the launch of the JV, the two airlines have also signed a new agreement between their respective loyalty programmes.
Starting 1 June 2025, members of Etihad Guest and Eastern Miles can earn and redeem miles across both airlines’ respective global networks.
The Etihad Airways – China Eastern Airlines JV, initially announced in June 2024, now becomes operational.
This JV enables more seamless travel between major Chinese cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Xi’an, and Kunming, and key cities in the UAE as well as across the Middle East and Africa regions.
Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer of Etihad, said: “The Joint Venture with China Eastern is a major leap forward—not just for our two airlines, but for both the UAE and China.”
“By combining our networks and aligning our loyalty programmes, we’re expanding choice and connectivity for our guests, and setting the foundation for a new era of cooperation.”
The partnership is the first joint venture between a Middle Eastern and a Chinese airline.
Wan Qingchao, EVP of China Eastern, said: “The launch of the Shanghai-Abu Dhabi route and the implementation of the joint business cooperation are key achievements in advancing our shared vision under the Belt and Road Initiative.”
The new China Eastern flight to Abu Dhabi is flown on A330 aircraft.
Related News Stories: Etihad posts record full year profit Air Astana inks codeshare agreement with Etihad Airways Etihad launches Nairobi flights Etihad set to double Africa footprint Etihad unveils new Pakistan route Etihad unveils 10 new routes Etihad Airways Joins IATA's Turbulence Aware Programme Etihad starts year with increased passenger load factor Etihad launches new Saudi route Etihad showcasing Warner Bros. World branded jet
Learn more about : Etihad Airways ( Asia Pecific )
TravelMole Editorial Team
Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
Graham McKenzie on Sir Richie Richardson’s Dual Passion for Golf and His Homeland, Antigua
San Antonio on the Rise: David Gonzalez Talks Travel, Culture, and Growth
Anna Marie Presutti on San Francisco’s Tourism Revival and Global Outlook
Exploring Brooklands Museum with Alex Patterson
Global Tourism Challenges and Upcoming Events: A Conversation with Don Welsh
Peebles Barbeque: A Legacy of Flavor and Tradition
Exploring Bok Tower Gardens with Erica Smith
Rue’s Living Water Boat Cruises: Exploring Winter Haven’s Chain of Lakes
Durango and Silverton Railroad: A Timeless Journey Through History and Scenic Beauty
Walt Leger on New Orleans’ Resilience and Major Events Ahead
Cindy Mackin Shares Estes Park’s Winter Thrills
Mark Jaronski of Explore Georgia on FIFA World Cup 2026
CLIA expands trade support with expedition event
Qatar Airways adding Manchester flights
EU entry-exit system delayed again
Jet2 unveils Samos as new Greek destination for summer 2026
ATC strike in Greece could disrupt flights this week