Virgin Australia, Etihad Airways in talks to boost ties

Virgin Australia and Etihad Airways are still in talks about enhancing their ties, even amid speculation that the Abu Dhabi-based carrier may sell its stakes in other airlines. Rob Sharp, group executive of Virgin Australia Airlines, said the relationship with Etihad is “very sound”. His comments come as Etihad undergoes a strategy review of its equity stakes after reporting $1.52b in losses in 2017 and $1.95b in losses in 2016. “We have a deep relationship with Etihad Airways. That alliance is ongoing. We actually [just] met with them and we were talking about things we can do to continue to enhance that relationship,” Sharp said. Asked whether Etihad will keep its stake in Virgin Australia, Sharp said he could not comment on the issue, adding that Etihad will have to “react to its environment.” “For us, though, the demand for Australia over Abu Dhabi and back is very strong, and the relationship is very sound,” he said.<br/>