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The top executives of Etihad Airways met Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday to discuss new areas of partnership in the state.
James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ president and chief executive officer, reaffirmed “the Abu Dhabi-based airline’s commitment” in the state, the airline said in a statement.
Hogan was accompanied by Vijay Poonoosamy, the airline’s vice-president, international & public affairs and Neerja Bhatia, general manager — India operations. During the meeting, the chief minister outlined the priorities of the state, identifying areas of mutual interest and opportunities for Etihad Airways to support economic growth. “The chief minister and Hogan discussed new areas of collaboration between Maharashtra and Etihad Airways, especially in tourism and cargo exports,” the airline said.
Etihad Airways and Jet Airways together operate more than 220 flights between India and Abu Dhabi each week, including five daily flights from Mumbai and a daily flight from Pune.
Etihad Airways was the first foreign airline to invest in an Indian carrier under the current foreign direct investment (FDI) policy of India, making a $ 750 million investment which includes a 24 per cent equity stake in the airline.
