Etihad Airways selects IBM as technology service provider

Etihad Airways has struck a 10-year, $700-billion deal to make IBM the airline’s technology services provider, a move that will allow the airline to enhance its guest online experience, develop world-class infrastructure and security, as well as to improve efficiency; this tech services deal with IBM marks one of the most important strategic collaborations Etihad Airways has entered.

As a result, IBM will provide access to the latest cloud-based technologies and services for not just the airline, but also its group companies and equity partners.

The New York-based tech giant will deliver a range of secure and efficient technology services that will allow Etihad Airways and partners to transform their IT infrastructure into a global, flexible and agile cloud-based platform. Those plans include creating of a new cloud data center in Abu Dhabi. When complete, the IBM-operated center will be one of the most sophisticated technology facilities in the Middle East.

Robert Webb, Etihad Airways' chief information and technology officer, said the landmark agreement is a fundamental part of the airline’s technology and innovation strategy. The goal is to make Etihad ready for the rapidly changing landscape of business and personal technology.

"We have chosen IBM as a global technology partner due to its commitment to its people, its experience in delivering such transformations and its history of leadership and innovation in the airline industry,” Webb said. “We are confident that this collaboration will ultimately enhance our guest experience and reinforce our competitive position further within the industry."

Etihad Airways CEO James Hogan said the company looks forward to long and fruitful relationship with IBM.

"This is a long-term, strategic partnership which will allow Etihad Airways and its partners to harness the latest technologies as we deliver our award-winning services,” Hogan said. “This is a game-changing agreement for Etihad Airways, for our partners and employees, and for Abu Dhabi.”