airberlin and Etihad to integrate 787 Dreamliner order

Etihad Airways and airberlin have announced plans to integrate their Boeing 787 Dreamliner programs, affecting a total of 56 firm aircraft, saving millions of dollars for both carriers. A combined Etihad Airways-airberlin team, led by Etihad Airways, will oversee the integration program, which will see the two airlines share infrastructure, pool maintenance, develop joint training programs, and streamline purchasing activity for engines, rotables, avionics and inflight entertainment systems, as well as work jointly on product development for the new aircraft type. Etihad Airways President and Chief Executive Officer, James Hogan, said: “This program is the first of a range of initiatives that will bring significant cost synergies and savings for both airlines. It is an ideal solution for reducing the costs associated with the introduction of a new aircraft type, and an excellent example of the value of our partnership, enabling Etihad Airways and airberlin to achieve economies of scale and avoid duplication in areas like design and certification.”