Etihad Airways will jointly market some of its flights with Air France-KLM in what could be the beginning of a larger strategic alliance, the airline said.
The deal covers code sharing on flights between Etihad’s hub in Abu Dhabi and Amsterdam and Paris, as well as some connecting flights to European, Asian and Australian destinations.
Etihad is suggesting the agreement may lead to deeper ties with Air France-KLM which could include frequent flier programmes.
Air France-KLM has also agreed to share its codes with Etihad partner Air Berlin on routes between France and Germany.
Etihad, which has a stake in Virgin Australia, bought nearly 30% of Air Berlin last year
Beyond their gateways, the code-share agreement offers five destinations each to Air France and KLM passengers on the Asian and Australian market and 10 European destinations to Etihad passengers on Air France and KLM.
The deal comes after Emirates signed a 10-year partnership deal with Qantas Airways.
That agreement calls for Qantas to move its hub for European flights from Singapore to Dubai and coordinate with Emirates on ticket prices and scheduling.
Etihad has reported a 19% jump in third-quarter sales to USD1.3 billion, and said it is on track to earn its second straight annual profit this year.
