By In a significant development for sports and aviation enthusiasts alike, Gulf carrier Etihad Airways has forged a partnership with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), one of the most illustrious franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The collaboration, announced at a ceremony held at Kalaivanar Arangam in Chennai, marks a strategic alliance between two iconic entities in their respective domains.
The agreement entails Etihad Airways becoming the official sponsor of CSK, with the airline’s logo prominently displayed on the players’ jerseys. Speaking about the partnership, Arik De, Chief Revenue Officer at Etihad Airways, highlighted the significance of deepening the airline’s relationship with India, stating, “The investment that we are announcing today is about CSK. Cricket is a huge part of this country and deepening that relationship for us is super important.”
The unveiling event witnessed the presence of CSK team officials, players, and Etihad cabin crew, who showcased the newly branded jerseys on stage. Emphasizing the significance of the collaboration, De added, “This (partnership) is also about making sure that we create a relationship that not only welcomes people but also deepens the market share.” The partnership with CSK holds strategic importance for Etihad Airways, given the team’s illustrious history in the IPL, having clinched the championship title five times since the tournament’s inception in 2008. Additionally, the airline’s commitment to excellence is underscored by its five World Best Airline awards, making it a natural fit for collaboration with the celebrated cricket franchise.
Kasi Viswanathan, CEO of Chennai Super Kings, echoed the sentiment of the collaboration transcending traditional sponsorship boundaries, stating, “This collaboration goes beyond the boundaries of a traditional sponsorship. It’s about creating an extraordinary experience for our fans and setting new standards in sports partnerships.” Etihad Airways’ investment in the partnership with CSK reflects its long-standing commitment to India, where it operates 165 flights per week to 10 cities, connecting passengers to 70 global destinations. The airline’s recent initiatives, including the launch of new routes to Kozhikode and Thiruvananthapuram, and increased frequencies on Mumbai and Delhi flights, underscore its dedication to serving the Indian market.
As the IPL fervor builds up ahead of the upcoming season, the partnership between Etihad Airways and Chennai Super Kings promises to deliver exciting opportunities for fans, players, and stakeholders alike. With a shared commitment to excellence and innovation, the collaboration is poised to redefine the dynamics of sports sponsorships and elevate the fan experience to new heights.
