Etihad Airways and Ethiopian Airlines have activated a codeshare agreement, marking the first step in their broader strategic partnership. The collaboration aims to strengthen connectivity between Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Middle East, offering passengers enhanced travel options. Ticket sales under the new agreement have officially begun.
As part of the arrangement:
Ethiopian Airlines will begin flights between Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) and Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) starting July 15.
Etihad Airways will launch daily flights to Addis Ababa from October 8.
This move lays the foundation for a more extensive joint venture agreement announced in March 2025. The codeshare will allow travelers to reach their final destinations with a single booking and streamlined baggage handling.
Arik De, Etihad’s Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, stated:
“By combining our networks, we’re enabling seamless travel between Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Middle East. Easy connections via Abu Dhabi and Addis Ababa will boost trade, tourism, and deliver exceptional experiences for our customers.”
Key highlights of the agreement:
Etihad passengers will gain access to 55 destinations across 33 countries via Ethiopian Airlines’ hub in Addis Ababa, including cities like Entebbe, Kinshasa, Kigali, Lusaka, Harare, and Victoria Falls.
Ethiopian passengers will be able to connect to 20 major destinations in Asia, Australia, and the Middle East through Etihad’s Abu Dhabi hub—such as Sydney, Krabi, Colombo, and Phnom Penh.
Etihad also plans to significantly expand its African network in 2025 with new destinations and increased frequencies to enhance regional connectivity.
