Emirates-flydubai deal could be a gamechanger

The Emirates-flydubai partnership announced on Monday has come at the right time for passengers and the airline industry in the region. Consolidation is the name of the name during unfavourable conditions for the sector. Low oil prices, travel restrictions imposed by the US, terror threats and geopolitical tensions have cut into the joy of flying. What’s interesting is that the two airlines have not held back their growth plans despite what is being called a turbulent period for global carriers when profits are in decline. Dubai’s full-value and low-cost carriers have realised they could emerge stronger and nimbler together if they cooperate to make it easier for passengers from their hubs in the city. Let’s say they will offer total value for travellers once this agreement reaches fruition. Several routes could open up, others will be ramped up, non-profitable destinations could be dropped, and passengers will fly farther once they switch between each other’s network. Emirates has grown into a world leader in aviation while flydubai is a regional heavyweight. Together, they offer the best of both worlds through this partnership that promises to fly more passengers and bump up their profits. For travellers, flights on the combined network could become cheaper in the long run once the code-sharing, shared booking, joint frequent flyer programme, and other schemes are rolled out in the air.

What this development means is that the two airlines will remain independent but inclusive — open to each other’s ideas, passengers and facilities. They will innovate and integrate as they go along. The deal is a sign of a maturing Middle East aviation sector that is expected to benefit fliers who view Dubai as the flying capital of the world. It boosts the city’s connectivity and all that it has to offer to the world. Emirates and flydubai are 216 destinations stronger together. That’s some variety and strength in numbers which discount competitors of the two airlines in Asia and Africa cannot ignore. Crucially, this deal proves Dubai’s aviation ambitions are soaring and could be a gamechanger for the industry. Emirates and flydubai have just shown how it can be done for a better tomorrow.