Etihad Airways has signed a memorandum of understanding with China Eastern Airlines. The deal will encompass joint route and schedule coordination, codesharing between the UAE and China and in time on each other’s networks, full frequent flyer reciprocity, reciprocal airport lounge access, joint product development, and technical and cargo cooperation – subject to regulatory approval.

Etihad Airways and airberlin have announced plans to integrate their Boeing 787 Dreamliner programs, affecting a total of 56 firm aircraft - which is more Dreamliners than are on order with any other airline - and saving millions of dollars for both carriers.

Etihad Airways has launched a travel agent incentive programme that allows agents to earn Etihad Guest Miles on every Diamond First and Pearl Business class ticket sold. Agents based in the UK, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, France, USA and Australia are eligible to participate.

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, will offer one night’s free accommodation to passengers stopping over in Abu Dhabi for a minimum of two nights before December 1st, 2012. The Essential Stopovers offer, part of the Essential Abu Dhabi program, can be redeemed at 25 hotels, ranging from three to five star.

Etihad Airways has commenced scheduled flights between its hub in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai, China. The national airline of the United Arab Emirates will initially operate five weekly Airbus A330-300 services to Shanghai’s main international airport – Pudong (PVG) – with commitments to a daily schedule from April 15th.

Etihad Airways has announced the launch of non-stop daily flights to Washington, DC; make the destination the airline’s fourth destination in North America. Also today Etihad confirmed a new country manager to lead its Irish management team, as the airline continues to build its presence in the Irish market.