On November 26, 2024, Kazakhstan's national carrier, Air Astana, and Etihad Airways, the flag carrier of the United Arab Emirates, signed a codeshare agreement to enhance connectivity between the two airlines' networks. This strategic partnership will become effective from November 26, 2024, marking a significant step in expanding travel options for passengers of both airlines. Under this agreement, Air Astana passengers will gain access to Etihad's flights to key Middle Eastern and Asian destinations including Mumbai, Riyadh, Dammam, Bahrain, Cairo, Doha, Kuwait City, and Muscat.
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This move not only broadens the travel horizons for passengers originating from Kazakhstan but also facilitates seamless connections via Abu Dhabi, Etihad's global hub. Air Astana currently operates direct flights from Astana to Abu Dhabi, which started in late October, and from Almaty, set to commence on December 5, 2024. This codeshare allows for single bookings, simplified check-in processes, and seamless baggage transfers across both airlines, enhancing the travel experience with convenience and efficiency. The partnership is particularly beneficial for travelers looking to explore new destinations or connect to their final destinations with ease, without the hassle of multiple bookings or baggage handling concerns.
Zhanna Shayakhmetova, Vice President of Marketing & Sales at Air Astana, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating that it reflects Air Astana's commitment to providing its passengers with enhanced travel options and access to a broader network. This alliance is also a testament to Air Astana's eighth codeshare agreement worldwide, signaling its growing influence and connectivity in the international aviation market.
For Etihad, this agreement strengthens its presence in Central Asia, a region with growing economic and tourism potential. By leveraging Air Astana’s network, Etihad can offer more comprehensive travel packages, aiming to attract passengers from Kazakhstan and beyond who are looking for diverse travel experiences. This partnership comes at a time when both airlines are looking to recover and expand post the global health crisis, aiming to capitalize on the resurgence in global travel demand. It also underscores the strategic importance of Abu Dhabi as a transit hub, connecting different parts of the world, particularly with the Middle East and India being pivotal markets for both airlines.