Abu Dhabi’s Etihad hits back at unfair competition charges

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) – The United Arab Emirates’ national carrier has formally submitted a document to the United States government rebutting allegations by U.S. carriers that it receives unfair subsidies.

Government-owned Etihad Airways announced the filing Tuesday, marking its most comprehensive response to an effort by American carriers to pressure Washington to renegotiate treaties that allow airlines from Qatar and the UAE to fly to the U.S.

U.S. airlines have criticized Etihad and larger rivals Emirates and Qatar Airways over the subsidies allegations.

In the 60-page document to the U.S. Departments of Commerce, State and Transportation, Etihad says it has received $9.1 billion in equity payments from the Abu Dhabi government and $5.2 billion in loans.

It argues the payments are justified given the government’s sole ownership, and “categorically rejects” claims it receives subsidies.