Etihad Airways in India is set to thrive with the backing of CSK players
Etihad Airways, based in Abu Dhabi, has become the principal sponsor for the Chennai Super Kings in the IPL. The airline, currently connecting 10 Indian cities to Abu Dhabi, will enjoy prominent visibility during matches, including having its name featured on players' jerseys and perimeter boards. According to Rakesh Singh, Director of Chennai Super Kings Ltd., the partnership is officially for three years, but he hinted at the possibility of it extending beyond that. Singh mentioned that CSK receives over ₹100 crore from all sponsorships combined.
As per the bilateral agreement with India, Etihad Airways has the right to operate 50,000 weekly seats to Abu Dhabi. Currently, in collaboration with its partner airline, Air Arabia, the airline operates 42,000 seats per week, achieving an occupancy rate of approximately 85–90%, as stated by Arik De, the Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer of Etihad Airways. He emphasized that the airline is content with its current seat allocation and has no plans to request additional seats. Furthermore, De highlighted that Etihad's business in India has experienced a 30% annual growth post the pandemic.
Arik De, the Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer of Etihad Airways, expressed that he doesn't anticipate the inauguration of the Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi on February 14 to significantly impact Etihad's business in India. He emphasized that the relationship between India and the UAE goes beyond the temple and sees it as just one step in their partnership journey. De highlighted the strong and warm relationship between the leaders of the two countries, Prime Minister Modi and President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He stated that Etihad has been present in the region for two decades and has a well-established presence. Regarding the airline's unique features, De mentioned that Etihad operates Airbus 350 aircraft to certain cities but does not have A-380s. When asked about a distinctive aspect of Etihad Airways, he pointed out that passengers flying to the US have the advantage of completing the US immigration process in Abu Dhabi itself, a feature not offered by any other airline.