Abu Dhabi gov’t ploughs $22bn into Etihad Airways since 2003 take-off

Abu Dhabi gov’t ploughs $22bn into Etihad Airways since 2003 take-off

Abu Dhabi's government has stumped up around $22 billion for Etihad Airways since it began flying in 2003, underscoring the ambition of the oil-rich emirate to turn its national carrier into a global player.

The investments, made before Covid-19 lockdowns strangled demand for air travel, were likely a prelude to support for the carrier this year, given the sector's dire need for cash during the pandemic.

Abu Dhabi-based airline unveils world's first sustainability-linked financing in global aviation

The airline revealed the previously undisclosed cash injections during recent bond investor meetings ahead of a sukuk sale, saying they were carried out until the end of 2019, according to two people familiar with the discussions.

It wasn't immediately clear if payments were made after 2018, when the UAE agreed to increase financial transparency in its airlines