Abu Dhabi's Etihad Airways has doubled its stake in Virgin Australia in what is clearly a strategic plan to increase its global presence. It already also holds equity investments in Aer Lingus, Air Berlin and Air Seychelles.
However, Etihad said that it was not looking to take control of Virgin Australia.
"Our small equity stake reflects the strong working relationship of both airlines and again demonstrates our enduring commitment to the Australian market", said Etihad’s CEO, James Hogan, in a statement.
From its Abu Dhabi hub Etihad serves Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney, whilst as a code-share partner Virgin Australia also offers Sydney on what is effectively a double daily operation to Australia’s commercial capital. www.etihad.com www.virginaustralia.com
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