Interview: Etihad CEO on the Incredible Value of Service
Skift Take
James Hogan has built Etihad into one of the world's most influential airlines. But Etihad still has plenty of challenges ahead as it deals with global pandemics, wars, and economic malaise.
Future of Passenger Experience
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When James Hogan joined Etihad Airways in 2006, he took over a small three-year-old Abu Dhabi-based airline with a limited route network and grand ambitions.
In the decade since, he has built Etihad into a major global player, threatening legacy airlines in the United States and Europe. With its Abu Dhabi hub, Etihad leverages its unique location to offer quick connections between the United States and Europe and the Middle East, India and Africa. And the airline has made service a priority, adding unusual touches, such as flying nannies (even in economy class) and onboard chefs. On its Airbus A380s, which fly mainly to London, Sydney and New York, the airline even has a two-room suite called 'The Residence' with a private bathroom.
In recent years, Etihad has focused on investing in other airlines, taking equity stakes in Alitalia, Air Berlin, Air Seychelles and India's Jet Airways, among others. Not all of the investments have paid off yet — Air Berlin has struggled with recen
