Vietnam Airlines and Etihad Airways Launch New Codeshare Partnership

Vietnam Airlines and Etihad Airways have launched a new partnership in July 2025, linking their frequent flyer programs (Lotusmiles and Etihad Guest) and expanding connectivity with Etihad’s new direct flights from Abu Dhabi to Hanoi starting November 2, 2025.

Key Highlights of the Partnership
- Launch Date: Effective July 1, 2025 - Frequent Flyer Integration: Members of Etihad Guest and Lotusmiles can now earn and redeem miles across both airlines.
- Expanded Benefits: Access to lounges, upgrades, and seamless travel across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and America.
- New Route: Etihad Airways will begin direct flights from Abu Dhabi to Hanoi on November 2, 2025, strengthening Vietnam’s global connectivity.
- Strategic Aim: Enhance customer experience, broaden travel options, and deepen cooperation between the UAE and Vietnam.

Why This Matters
For Travelers:
- Easier booking and smoother connections between Vietnam and the Middle East.
- More destinations available under a single ticket.
- Loyalty members gain greater flexibility in redeeming miles.
For Airlines:
- Vietnam Airlines strengthens its international reach, especially into the Middle East.
- Etihad expands its footprint in Southeast Asia, tapping into Vietnam’s growing tourism and business travel market.

Things to Keep in Mind
- Codeshare vs. Loyalty Partnership:
Current announcements emphasize the loyalty program integration and new route launch. While this often precedes codeshare agreements, details on full codeshare operations (shared flight codes across networks) have not yet been explicitly confirmed in official releases.

- Implementation Timeline:
Benefits began in July 2025, but the new Hanoi route only starts in November 2025. Travelers should check schedules and availability before booking.

In summary:
This partnership is a strategic move to link Vietnam and the UAE more closely, offering travelers expanded routes and loyalty perks. The Abu Dhabi–Hanoi direct flight is the centerpiece, while the loyalty integration ensures frequent flyers enjoy broader benefits across both networks.