Etihad Airways has signed a strategic codeshare agreement with Taipei-based STARLUX Airlines, expanding customer access to Northeast Asia and strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a gateway between East and West.
This partnership, announced at the International Air Transport Association Annual General Meeting in New Delhi, enables Etihad customers to connect seamlessly to key Japanese cities including Nagoya, Sapporo, and Fukuoka via Taipei. In return, STARLUX passengers gain direct access to Etihad’s European network through Abu Dhabi.
Etihad will commence daily flights between Abu Dhabi and Taipei on 7 September 2025, using Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, establishing Taipei as a key point for Etihad’s expansion into Northeast Asia. Customers booking through etihad.com and the airline’s app will enjoy streamlined travel through single-ticket bookings and automatic baggage transfers to final destinations across STARLUX’s Asia-Pacific network.
Expanded Opportunities
The agreement introduces fresh opportunities for STARLUX passengers to reach European destinations such as Prague, Madrid, and Barcelona via Abu Dhabi, making the emirate a desirable transit hub for Asian travellers heading to Europe.
Both airlines will also roll out joint marketing initiatives in Taiwan and create a reciprocal frequent flyer program by the end of the year, allowing Etihad Guest members to earn and redeem miles across both networks.
Arik De (Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways) stated:
“This partnership with STARLUX Airlines opens new market opportunities in Northeast Asia, giving our customers access to Japan’s key business and leisure destinations through Taipei. STARLUX Airlines’ reputation for premium service aligns perfectly with our standards, offering greater choice and convenience for travelers.”
Simon Liu (Chief Strategy Officer of STARLUX Airlines) commented:
“Our partnership with Etihad Airways is a significant milestone in STARLUX’s global expansion, setting the stage for future European routes. Etihad is recognized for its innovation and premium service—values that resonate with our brand.”
This codeshare agreement is part of Etihad’s strategic network growth, having expanded to serve over 90 destinations globally. It highlights Abu Dhabi’s appeal as a premium transit destination, complemented by world-class facilities at Zayed International Airport and the option for travelers to extend layovers through Etihad’s complimentary Abu Dhabi Stopover program.
Booking for codeshare flights will soon be available via etihad.com, the Etihad app, and travel partners, pending regulatory approvals.
