UAE's national airline Etihad Airways has announced plans to transfer all its Russian operations to the new state-of-the-art International Terminal C at Moscow Sheremetyevo Alexander S. Pushkin International Airport (SVO).

 

The first departure to SVO will take place on the 13th anniversary of Etihad’s first direct service to Moscow in December 2008.

 

The move to SVO will be enhanced by daily Etihad services between Abu Dhabi and Moscow. Flights depart Abu Dhabi at 9.35am each day, with the return service departing Moscow at 3.50 pm.

 

Etihad’s service changes will be complemented by the launch of a broader partnership with Russia’s national airline group, Aeroflot - Russian Airlines (Aeroflot).

 

Aeroflot will launch its first ever services to Abu Dhabi, the UAE capital, three times weekly from November 13.

 

In conjunction with both carriers operating between Moscow and the UAE capital, and subject to any necessary regulatory approvals, Etihad and Aeroflot have agreed to enhance their interline agreement, launch codeshare services  across their respective networks, and explore other areas of cooperation to enhance guest benefits, such as frequent flyer reciprocity  and premium customer handling.

 

The carriers will also explore opportunities to cooperate in operational areas by leveraging each group’s capabilities and strengths.

 

Alex Featherstone, VP (Network Planning and Alliances), said: "We are proud to announce Etihad will be moving to Moscow’s Sheremetyevo International Airport, and broadening our relationship with the national carrier, Aeroflot."

 

"Since launching flights between Moscow and Abu Dhabi 13 years ago, we have experienced huge growth in Russia’s tourism and aviation markets, and enjoyed strong demand from business and leisure travellers, as well as cargo, assisted by direct services, codeshare and the Reciprocal Visa-Free Travel Agreement between the two nations implemented in February 2019," he stated. 

 

"The move also further reinforces our commitment to the Russia market, and our intention to offer our Russian guests easier access to the world-class leisure attractions and events, cultural sites, hotels and resorts, beaches, and great winter weather that Abu Dhabi has to offer," he added.

 

The daily flights will be operated by with a mix of widebody and narrowbody aircraft, including the technologically advanced Boeing 787 Dreamliner, featuring the airline’s innovative, award-winning cabin designs and products, complemented by its acclaimed service and hospitality.