New Etihad-Hong Kong Airlines deal expands travel access across Japan and beyond
Travellers gain network-wide earning and redemption through linked loyalty programmes
ABU DHABI – Etihad Airways and Hong Kong Airlines have entered a new phase of collaboration, launching a comprehensive codeshare and reciprocal loyalty partnership to expand travel options and benefits across their combined networks.
The agreement was formalised during a ceremonial event in Hong Kong on 4 November 2025, coinciding with the arrival of Etihad’s inaugural flight from Abu Dhabi to Hong Kong International Airport.
This enhanced partnership is designed to provide travellers with seamless journeys across Asia and beyond. Hong Kong Airlines flights between Hong Kong and Abu Dhabi are now available as Etihad ‘EY’ services, while passengers flying to Japan can continue their journey on Hong Kong Airlines-operated flights to destinations such as Fukuoka, Hokkaido-Sapporo, Osaka and Okinawa, under the Etihad ‘HX’ code. The arrangement allows for a single ticket, one check-in, and automatic baggage transfer, streamlining the travel experience.
Seamless Asian connectivity
Abu Dhabi now stands as a key connecting hub between Greater China, Japan, the Middle East, Europe and Africa. The partnership aligns with both carriers’ strategies to meet the rising demand for travel between the Gulf region and major Asian cities. Etihad’s growing presence in East Asia, combined with Hong Kong Airlines’ regional strength, offers passengers convenient access to a broader array of destinations.
Louis Li, Executive Vice President of Hong Kong Airlines, described the move as “an important milestone in Hong Kong Airlines’ return to the international market,” emphasising how the expansion of the codeshare and launch of a loyalty link will “lay the foundation for deepened commercial collaboration.”
Loyalty programme integration
The new reciprocal loyalty agreement will soon allow members of Etihad Guest and Hong Kong Airlines’ Fortune Wings Club to earn and redeem miles across both airlines’ full networks. The integration builds upon Etihad’s ongoing cooperation with Hainan Airlines, enhancing the benefits available to Fortune Wings Club members on Etihad’s new Hong Kong route.
Etihad Guest now stands as the largest non-alliance airline loyalty programme in terms of partner network, offering unmatched global coverage. Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways, said the partnership “delivers meaningful value to Etihad Guest members through full earn-and-redeem access across Hong Kong Airlines’ network, complemented by codeshare connectivity to high-demand Japanese destinations.”
Expanding commercial opportunities
The renewed collaboration also reflects the strengthening of economic and travel links between Hong Kong and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. Hong Kong Airlines noted a steady rise in travel demand from the GCC to Hong Kong and other major Asian cities, underscoring Abu Dhabi’s pivotal role as a global connector.
The partnership, originally initiated through a codeshare agreement in 2014, now expands into a broader strategic alliance. Both airlines expect the cooperation to deliver significant commercial opportunities and enhance convenience for business and leisure travellers alike.