Etihad not seeking airline stakes, focuses on organic growth: CEO Neves

Antonoaldo Neves says aircraft supply, not market access, is the bigger challenge; India accounts for 20% of Etihad's business.

Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways is “not worried” about the lack of additional bilateral rights with India, as global air travel demand is strong and the airline continues to deploy its fleet on non-India routes, Chief Executive Officer Antonoaldo Neves said on Wednesday. However, he added that the airline is willing to add flights to India in 2026–27 if permitted.

 

The bilateral air services agreement between India and Abu Dhabi allows 50,000 weekly seats for airlines from each side. Both Indian and Abu Dhabi-based carriers have fully utilised their allocations.

 

When asked if talks have begun between India and Abu Dhabi