🛫 Ownership of Etihad Airways ✈️
1. Founding of Etihad Airways:
- Founder: Sheikh Ahmed bin Saif Al Nahyan, 🏅 a member of the Abu Dhabi royal family, played a crucial role in the establishment of Etihad Airways. The airline was officially founded in July 2003 and commenced operations in November 2003. 🗓️
2. Ownership Structure:
- Sole Owner: Etihad Airways is wholly owned by the government of Abu Dhabi 🏛️, the capital of the United Arab Emirates 🇦🇪. The airline is not a publicly traded company, so it doesn’t have private shareholders or public investors. 🚫📊
- Parent Entity: The ownership of Etihad Airways is managed through ADQ (Abu Dhabi Developmental Holding Company), 🏢 a state-owned holding company that manages a portfolio of major economic sectors and is an arm of the government of Abu Dhabi. Before ADQ, the airline was overseen by Mubadala Investment Company, another sovereign wealth fund of Abu Dhabi with global investments. 🌍💼
- Government of Abu Dhabi: The ultimate control and decision-making authority rest with the Abu Dhabi government. 🏛️ The government views Etihad Airways as a strategic national asset, playing a significant role in the economic development of the emirate, particularly in terms of tourism 🌐 and international connectivity 🌍.
Strategic Importance:
- Economic Development: Etihad Airways is a key player in Abu Dhabi’s broader strategy to diversify its economy beyond oil 🌟, focusing on sectors such as tourism, trade, and aviation. ✈️🛍️
- National Carrier: As the national airline of the UAE 🇦🇪, Etihad represents Abu Dhabi on the global stage 🌎, and its operations are closely aligned with the emirate’s geopolitical and economic interests. 🌟
The ruler of Abu Dhabi, like other prominent leaders in the UAE, typically has access to a fleet of aircraft, including Boeing jets, for official travel. 🛩️👑 These aircraft are part of the government’s or the royal family’s private fleet, tailored for luxury, security, and convenience.
Key Points:
- Private and Government Fleet: The fleet used by the ruler and senior officials includes various types of aircraft, such as Boeing 787 Dreamliners or Boeing 747s, customized for comfort and long-haul travel. ✈️💼
- Luxury and Security: These aircraft are equipped with luxurious interiors and advanced security features to ensure the ruler’s safety and comfort. 🛋️🔒
- Occasional Use of Commercial Jets: While private jets are preferred, the ruler and top officials might occasionally use Etihad Airways’ or other airlines’ commercial jets for special circumstances or larger delegations. 🌐🛫