Etihad Airways and Vietnam Airlines are exploring key areas of collaboration to enhance their customer experience after signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for a potential agreement. The MoU reflects a dedication to exploring a greater working relationship, where the airlines plan to implement a broad collaboration including a codeshare, reciprocal loyalty programs, cargo transport, maintenance, repair and overhaul, and ground handling.
Etihad Airways and Vietnam Airlines signed the MoU at a ceremony in Dubai recently in front of government and business leaders from the UAE and Vietnam.
Interline agreement expansion
Etihad Airways and Vietnam Airlines have an existing interline agreement, allowing passengers to seamlessly transfer between flights on either carrier without the need to collect baggage or check in again.
“This MoU is an important milestone to establishing a long-term mutually beneficial collaboration, opening the door for both airlines to explore the benefits of a deeper relationship. Our collective ambition is to further strengthen both airlines’ ability to provide and enhance service to our customers,” stated Jurriaan Stelder, Etihad’s vice-president alliances.
For his part, Nguyen Chien Thang, Vietnam Airlines’ executive vice president, said that the MoU marks an important milestone in expanding ties with Etihad Airways. “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,” he added.
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Vietnam Airlines partners with Emirates
In addition to Etihad Airways, Emirates also entered into two MoUs with Vietnam Airlines and VietJet, with the goal of enhancing connectivity and expanding travel options between Dubai and Vietnam’s key cities, Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. The airlines formalized the MoUs during the Vietnam-UAE Business Forum, which took place recently at the Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah.
Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ deputy president and chief commercial officer, highlighted the importance of collaborating with partners like Vietnam Airlines and VietJet, citing the opportunities for enhancing tourism and trade within the region. He expressed optimism about the potential for further collaboration and the growth of Emirates’ presence in Vietnam.
The MoU with Vietnam Airlines establishes a framework for expanding the existing collaboration between the two airlines. It includes improvements in connectivity on routes beyond the current interline agreement and the potential introduction of reciprocal loyalty benefits. The airlines will also engage in discussions regarding possible joint ventures in cargo and technical services to create seamless travel experiences for passengers.
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