TUI and Etihad Aviation Group are in discussion to create a new European leisure airline group focused on point-to-point flying to connect key tourist markets.
The air operations of Air Berlin (which Etihad holds a 29.21 per cent stake in) and TUIfly, including the aircraft currently operated by TUIfly for Air Berlin under a wet-lease agreement, will likely be utilised while Etihad will contribute its expertise. TUI’s broad distribution network will also be leveraged.
Countries to be served include Germany, Austria and Switzerland, revealed a joint statement by Etihad and TUI, with further intentions to connect a “broad network of destinations”.
Air Berlin in a separate statement confirmed its participation in the discussions, citing the airline’s “far-reaching restructuring” announced last week to focus itself as a network carrier with hubs at Berlin and Dusseldorf, and to “evaluate strategic options for its touristic business”.
TUI, Etihad and Air Berlin intends to finalise an in-principle agreement in due course, subject to all necessary corporate and regulatory approvals.
