India’s Jet Airways has admitted it is in negotiations with Etihad about the Abu Dhabi carrier taking a stake in the company.
Jet said that talks were taking place between the two airlines in a statement made to the Bombay Stock Exchange, where Jet is listed.
It is the first time that Jet has publicly admitted to discussions with Etihad and there has been speculation in India that Etihad could acquire a 24 per cent shareholding in Jet for around $330 million.
“Various structures are being explored by the legal and commercial teams,” said Jet in its statement.
Etihad has also been in discussions with Jet Airways’ Indian rival Kingfisher, which is currently grounded and lost its licence to fly earlier this week.
The Abu Dhabi airline already has stakes in airlines such as Air Berlin, Aer Lingus and Virgin Australia.