Darwin Airline closes Transaction with Etihad Airways

Following approval from Switzerland’s Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA), Darwin Airline announced that the acquisition by Etihad Airways of a 33.3 per cent stake in the share capital of the Swiss regional airline, operating under the brand of Etihad Regional, has been formalized by way of a share capital increase.

The Board of Etihad Regional has appointed Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways’ Chief Commercial Officer, as Vice Chairman and Harsh Mohan, Etihad Airways’ Senior Vice President Audit, Compliance and Risk as Director.

Maurizio Merlo, Etihad Regional’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “This is great news for European travelers and Darwin Airline alike. Consumers from Europe will enjoy greater connectivity options, while Darwin Airline will have increased sales and marketing opportunities and the chance to benefit from Etihad Airways’ global network. We are looking forward to the journey with our new shareholder and strategic partner, Etihad Airways.”

James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ President & Chief Executive Officer, said: “We are pleased to confirm that Etihad Airways is now the shareholder of 33.3 per cent of Darwin Airline. This investment is important for aviation in Switzerland as it promotes competition and provides additional choice for tourist and business travelers.

Etihad Regional is, and will continue to be, majority owned by Swiss shareholders and operated by Swiss management. The airline becomes the eighth member of the Etihad Airways equity partnership, Etihad Airways Partners, and the fifth partner in Europe”.

Darwin Airline