Etihad and Air Serbia Forge Codeshare to Boost European Travel Options

In a significant move for international air travel, Etihad Airways and Air Serbia have announced a new codeshare agreement, promising to expand connectivity across Europe and offer passengers a wider selection of travel destinations. This strategic partnership marks a milestone in enhancing the travel network between the United Arab Emirates and Southeast Europe, offering seamless travel experiences to a range of new destinations.

The collaboration between the national carriers of the UAE and Serbia is set to significantly enhance the travel landscape for customers of both airlines. Through this bilateral agreement, Etihad Airways will provide its passengers with convenient access to 12 key destinations in Southeast Europe via Air Serbia's hub in Belgrade. Notably, this partnership introduces nine new destinations to Etihad's expansive network, enriching the airline's offerings and connectivity.

One of the hallmark features of this codeshare arrangement is the streamlined travel experience it promises. Travelers can look forward to making single bookings for their journey, enjoying the ease of a seamless check-in process, and the convenience of having their baggage directly transferred to their final destination. This simplification of the travel process is a significant boon for passengers navigating the complexities of international travel.

Air Serbia's network will now be readily accessible to Etihad's customers, allowing for easy connections from Etihad's gateways in cities such as Athens, Milan, Rome, and Vienna. This development opens a new window of travel opportunities for Etihad's clientele, who can now explore a broader range of destinations with ease and convenience.

Jurriaan Stelder, VP Alliances and Industry Affairs at Etihad, emphasized the benefits of the partnership, stating, "This partnership further expands our codeshare network and provides our guests with convenient access to 12 of Air Serbia’s leisure and business destinations, including Belgrade, Bucharest, Budapest, Thessaloniki, Tirana, Skopje, and Sofia."

Moreover, the codeshare agreement is expected to draw more visitors to Abu Dhabi, introducing them to the emirate's renowned hospitality, cultural landmarks, and stunning natural landscapes. Boško Rupić, Air Serbia's General Manager of Commercial and Strategy, highlighted the added value for passengers, noting the increased choices, flexibility, and convenience offered through this partnership.

The collaboration is also a boon for members of the Etihad Guest loyalty program, who will now have the flexibility to earn or redeem miles across the combined networks of Etihad Airways and Air Serbia, further enhancing the travel experience.

Scheduled to commence operation from 30 January 2024, with flights beginning on 3 February 2024, this codeshare agreement between Etihad and Air Serbia is poised to redefine travel options for passengers, offering them unparalleled access to explore new destinations across Southeast Europe.