Etihad Airways has emphasised the importance of Italy to its global flight network and outlined plans to increase flights to the country, following a visit to Abu Dhabi by the Italian tourism minister. Her Excellency Michela Brambilla visited the UAE capital as part of a top level trade delegation, aimed at strengthening trade links between the two countries. The newly-appointed Italian tourism minister led a delegation of Italian government representatives and tour operators.

Etihad Airways has appointed its first manager for environmental affairs - environmental and corporate social responsibility specialist, Linden Coppell.

Etihad Airways has signed of a new codeshare agreement with Aer Arann, of Ireland. Under the deal, which is now in force, the Abu Dhabi-based airline will place its two-letter ‘EY’ code on Aer Arann’s regional flights from Dublin to Cork and Galway in Ireland and also to the Isle of Man.

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates based in Abu Dhabi, is yet again expanding its wings in its search for excellence.

Etihad Airways has reported it flew more than six million passengers in 2008, a 34 per cent rise on 2007.The growth during 2008, Etihad’s fifth year of operations, saw passenger numbers total 6,021,931 and the average seat factor rise from 68 per cent to 75 per cent. The airline has also taken delivery of nine new aircraft boosting its fleet to a total of 42.

Etihad Airways is trimming its annual aviation fuel bill by US $20 million thanks to a series of innovative efficiency measures.The national airline of the UAE has undertaken an indepth review of all aspects of its flight operations to identify areas where its fuel bill could be reduced. Measures include reducing weight on board the aircraft, changing certain operating procedures, reducing cruise speed where appropriate and increasing the frequency of engine washes.