Emirates and Etihad step closer with security pact

DUBAI: Emirates and Etihad Airways signed a security pact on Monday to share information and intelligence, the first agreement between the two rival airlines based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Emirates and Etihad, backed by their state owners, have competed almost head-to-head developing global networks from their respective hubs in Dubai and Abu Dhabi that are just 128 kilometres apart. Emirates is owned by the government of Dubai, and Etihad is owned by the government of Abu Dhabi.

Monday’s memorandum of understanding involves Emirates unit Emirates Group Security and Etihad parent Etihad Aviation Group working “together on operational areas both within and outside the UAE,” according to an Emirates statement. The agreement was signed by Emirates President Tim Clark and Etihad’s new Group Chief Executive Tony Douglas.

Clark told Reuters on October 11 that Emirates was open to working with Etihad, including on procurement. “I think there is value to be had working more closely with them,” Clark said in October.

Emirates and Etihad face common challenges; a lobbying campaign in the United States to investigate accusations that they are unfairly state subsidised, which they both deny, as well as overcapacity, security concerns, and a drop in regional business travel.

Under Monday’s agreement, Emirates Group Security will provide security and training programs to Etihad, and help develop their security escort capability.