Air France-KLM Group and Etihad Airways have taken a significant step in enhancing customer loyalty benefits by announcing a new partnership between their respective loyalty programs.
This collaboration follows the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the two airline groups in September 2023 and marks a new era in the airline industry’s customer-centric approach.
Members of Flying Blue, the loyalty program of Air France and KLM, along with Etihad Guest, the loyalty program of Etihad Airways, will now have the opportunity to earn and redeem miles across both programs. This initiative is set to significantly expand the benefits for frequent flyers, allowing them to accrue and spend miles on flights operated by Air France, KLM, or Etihad Airways.
The partnership, which became operational today, follows the MoU signed earlier in the year. It opens up more than 60 new routes for customers of both Air France-KLM and Etihad Airways, covering a wide range of global destinations. The agreement enhances the connectivity and travel options for passengers, further bolstering the airlines’ route networks.
Air France began operating flights from Paris Charles de Gaulle to Abu Dhabi International Airport in October, laying the groundwork for this partnership. Now, Flying Blue miles can be redeemed for a variety of experiences, including flights, hotel stays, car rentals, and products from the Flying Blue Store. Similarly, Etihad Guest Miles can be utilized for flights, hotel accommodations, vacations, and items from the Etihad Guest Reward Shop.
The collaboration is not just about earning and redeeming miles; it’s also about providing a seamless and enriched travel experience. Both Air France and Etihad Airways operate daily flights between Paris – Charles de Gaulle and Abu Dhabi International Airport, with Etihad also serving Amsterdam Schiphol from Abu Dhabi.
Angus Clarke, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Air France-KLM, expressed enthusiasm about the expanded partnership. He highlighted the strategic importance of Abu Dhabi as a destination and a hub, emphasizing the benefits this partnership brings to their 20 million Flying Blue members.
Arik De, Chief Revenue Officer at Etihad, echoed these sentiments, noting the expanded opportunities for Etihad’s 9 million Etihad Guest Members. He stressed the mutual benefits for frequent flyers of both airlines, underscoring the commitment to offering premium, customer-centric travel experiences.
This partnership between Air France-KLM and Etihad Airways represents a significant leap in enhancing the customer experience, offering more flexibility, choice, and rewards for loyal passengers of these leading airlines.
