Etihad Airways has signed a codeshare agreement with Hong Kong Airlines.
Subject to regulatory approval, the Gulf carrier will place its "EY" code on Hong Kong Airlines services to Bangkok and Okinawa.
Hong Kong Airlines' "HX" code will reciprocally be placed on Etihad's triple-daily flights between Abu Dhabi and Bangkok, as well as on two upcoming services that will connect Abu Dhabi with Madrid (from March 29) and Hong Kong (from June 15) (see news, July 11).
Reservations for the codeshare flights begin on December 23, for travel from January 6. For Etihad's Hong Kong and Madrid services, this will start from the routes' launch dates.
Kevin Knight, Etihad's chief strategy and planning officer, said: "Codeshares are a fundamental part of Etihad Airways' long-term growth strategy and we are delighted to sign this agreement with Hong Kong Airlines.
"Our partnership will result in multiple benefits for both airlines and, importantly, there are considerable advantages for travellers as well, such as enhanced connections and a more frequent service between the various destinations covered."
Li Dianchun, commercial director of Hong Kong Airlines, added: "We are glad to partner with Etihad Airways, which enables our passengers to enjoy a wider range of choices.
"Both airlines are renowned for their world-class product and service offering and through our new partnership, we will successfully cater to increasing traffic flows between key travel markets in Asia, the Middle East and Europe."
Clement Huang
