United Arab Emirates flag-carrier Etihad Airways has outlined plans to expand its footprint in South America. Speaking at the World Routes Development Forum presently being held in Abu Dhabi, chief executive James Hogan confirmed the airline was in discussions with South American-based carriers about potential commercial partnerships.

Etihad Airways has started implementing its latest tranche of Sabre software following the billion dollar technology agreement signed by the two companies last year. As part of Etihad Airways’ ongoing drive to create the world’s most efficient airline technology infrastructure, it has adopted Sabre’s codeshare, network and fleet management software to enhance planning and scheduling operations.

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has announced it will fly daily between Abu Dhabi and Istanbul from January 1st, 2013. The Abu Dhabi-based airline launched services to Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey, with four non-stop flights a week in June 2009, increasing to five services per week later that same year.

Etihad Airways has expanded its commercial team in Saudi Arabia with the addition of two new sales positions in the Riyadh and Jeddah offices. The new appointments are Aiyaz Khot, Manager Central Province, who is based in Riyadh and Imran Rakhangi, Manager Western Province, based in Jeddah.

Eminem has been unveiled as the final Yasalam After-Race Concert artist, bringing the F1 weekend to a stunning climax at the du Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Eminem will perform on Sunday November 4th, after the 2012 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Etihad Airways has confirmed its equity stake in Virgin Australia Holdings has now reached ten per cent. This represents 221 million shares which have been bought on the open market over recent months.