Etihad Airways "Deeply Disappointed" by German Court’s Decision

Etihad Airways today issued a statement to express its disappointment at the Braunschweig Administrative Court’s decision to withdraw approval for codeshare services with airberlin on 29 routes.

Etihad Airways owns 29.2% of airberlin, which is Germany’s second largest airline.

The airline said it is reviewing the judgment and will file an appeal against the decision early next week.

In the statement, Etihad said that "the withdrawal of approval for codeshare services on 29 routes materially reduces competition and consumer choice within and beyond Germany and causes inconvenience to passengers. Notwithstanding, we will continue to stand by our partner, airberlin, to promote competition and offer a superior product and travel experience."

The airline also said that it will continue to honour all booked itineraries.

airberlin's statement reads, "Our customers will not be affected. All previously booked Etihad Airways/airberlin codeshare flights will operate as planned. Our prospective joint flight schedule remains unchanged and bookable. In addition, all flights via Abu Dhabi and connecting to the worldwide Etihad Airways network will continue to be marketed jointly. We continue to stand for competition in Germany and a better product offering for our customers."