Etihad, STARLUX enhance frequent flyer partnership

Etihad Airways and STARLUX Airlines have expanded their loyalty partnership to introduce two-way mileage earning and redemption benefits for members of their respective frequent flyer programmes. Under the enhanced agreement, Etihad Guest and STARLUX COSMILE members can now redeem miles for award tickets on flights operated by either airline, as well as earn miles on eligible partner flights. Members can also request retroactive mileage credit for qualifying journeys, offering greater flexibility and more options for travel.

The expanded benefits build on the loyalty partnership launched in August, which initially allowed Etihad Guest members to redeem miles on Business and Economy Class flights across the STARLUX network. With the latest expansion, members of both programmes can now earn and redeem miles across the two airlines' networks in First, Business and Economy Class cabins.

“Every step in our partnership with STARLUX has been about making travel between our networks more rewarding for our members, and giving members the opportunity to now earn as well as redeem miles on both airlines further enhances the partnership and value for members. From 28 October, an Etihad Guest member flying with STARLUX earns miles on that trip and can spend them on their next journey with us, and COSMILE members enjoy the same in reverse. It is a simple promise that makes every flight with either airline count,” said Mark Potter, Managing Director, Etihad Guest.

“STARLUX Airlines is committed to continuously enhancing the travel experience for our members by deepening our partnerships with international airlines and creating more diverse travel opportunities,” said Glenn Chai, CEO of STARLUX Airlines. “The expansion of our partnership with Etihad Airways marks an important milestone in our collaboration. By combining our networks and frequent flyer programmes, COSMILE members can enjoy greater flexibility in using their miles and extend their journeys to more than 120 destinations worldwide via Etihad Airways’ hub in Abu Dhabi. We look forward to enhancing the benefits and value of the COSMILE programme through this partnership. Moving forward, we will continue to strengthen our relationships with airline partners to deliver greater convenience and more rewarding experiences throughout every journey.”

The loyalty expansion builds on the strategic codeshare agreement signed by Etihad and STARLUX in June 2025, followed by the launch of Etihad's Abu Dhabi–Taipei service in September 2025, operated by a Boeing 787-9. The partnership strengthens Abu Dhabi's role as a connecting hub between STARLUX's Asia-Pacific network and Etihad's European destinations, while Taipei serves as a key gateway for Etihad passengers travelling across Asia.

Under the expanded agreement, STARLUX COSMILE members can redeem miles for award tickets on Etihad-operated flights across its global network, while Etihad Guest members can book award tickets on STARLUX-operated flights. Members of both programmes can earn miles on eligible flights operated by either airline and request retroactive mileage credit for qualifying journeys, subject to the respective programmes’ terms and conditions. Award redemptions are available across First, Business and Economy Class cabins.