Etihad Airways plans to add more routes in China to boost traffic flows and expand in the country. 

James Hogan, the chief executive officer of the Abu Dhabi-based airline, said Etihad has already applied for more routes in China. The airline is now focusing on second tier Chinese cities. Etihad is currently operating flights to Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu under a codesharing agreement with two Chinese airlines - China Eastern Airlines and Hainan Airlines.

Like Us on Facebook

"With the exception of China, there aren't too many gaps that we have in the network. Africa and China are two big markets with significant traffic flows," Hogan said in Dublin. The Irish capital is hosting the annual general meeting of the International Air Travel Association.

"Etihad wants to partner with more Chinese airlines and increase traffic flows to the country. Over the horizon, we want more partnerships with Chinese airlines and we applied for [the rights to fly to] secondary Chinese cities to close gaps in our network," he said. "We already have strong codeshares in China. Ultimately we want more Chinese passengers flying into Abu Dhabi, but we are playing the long game."

Hogan, however, refused to comment on Australian media reports that Chinese carrier HNA Aviation will buy 13 percent stake in Virgin Australia which would reduce Etihad's share in the Aussie airline.

He also admitted that the recent terror attacks in Brussels, Paris and Egypt has adversely affected the aviation market as many travelers have decided to cancel their holiday plans. 

Tagsetihad, china, Airlines, Hainan, China Eastern Airlines