Etihad Airways will launch its first route in South America on 1st June 2013, with daily non-stop flights between Sao Paulo, Brazil, and its home base of Abu Dhabi. Etihad is keen to expand its footprint in South America and is currently in discussions with South American-based carriers about potential commercial partnerships.
Last Friday, James Hogan, President and Chief Executive Officer, said in Sao Paulo: “Brazil is one of the fastest growing economies in the world, now ranking as the sixth largest since overtaking the UK in 2011. Bi-lateral trade between Brazil and the UAE is valued at nearly US$3 billion annually, with authorities aiming to lift this to US$10 billion within five years.
“There are 25 major Brazilian companies with offices in Abu Dhabi. Mubadala, the development company of the Government of Abu Dhabi, last year signalled its intent to begin investments in Brazil, valued at up to US$13 billion.
“According to the Arab-Brazilian Chamber of Commerce, Brazil trade volumes with the Arab world grew by 28% in 2011 to reach US$25 billion. This is forecasted to grow by a further 10-15% this year.
“In addition to supporting the growing ties between Brazil and the Middle East, this new route complements Etihad Airways’ recent expansion in North Asia, including the recent introduction of services to Chengdu and Shanghai and the upcoming increase to daily Tokyo services with connections to Nagoya from April 2013.
“With some of the fastest connecting flight times to China and Japan, Brazil’s largest and fifth largest trade partner respectively, Etihad Airways is providing vital air links between the world’s major emerging markets.”
