Abu Dhabi: Etihad Airways and Vietnam Airlines have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that seeks to foster collaboration between the two airlines. This contract marks a significant step towards a long-term partnership developed to benefit their customer experience.
The MoU lays the groundwork for a range of better customer experience initiatives, including a codeshare agreement, common loyalty programs, cargo transport, maintenance, repair and overhaul services, and ground handling operations. Both airlines presently operate under an interline agreement, which enables seamless transfers for passengers between flights, allowing them to avoid baggage claims and check-ins.
Jurriaan Stelder, Etihad’s Vice-President Alliances, emphasized the significance of this agreement, stating that, “This MoU is a crucial milestone in setting a long-term mutually beneficial collaboration, opening the door for both airlines to investigate the benefits of a deeper relationship. Our collective ambition is to further bolster both airlines’ ability to deliver and improve service to our customers.”
Echoing this sentiment, Nguyen Chien Thang, Executive Vice President of Vietnam Airlines, expressed excitement about the partnership. Nguyen Chien Thang stated that, “We are pleased to sign this MoU with Etihad Airways, marking a critical milestone in expanding our relationship. Through comprehensive collaboration, including codeshare, loyalty programs, cargo, and technical support, we believe we will deliver exceptional benefits to the customers of both airlines and further strengthen connectivity between Vietnam and the UAE.”
This partnership is poised to elevate travel experiences and connectivity for passengers traveling between Vietnam and the UAE, reflecting the growing demand for improved service and collaboration in the aviation industry.