Abu Dhabi: Etihad and Ethiopian Airlines have activated their codeshare agreement, enhancing connectivity between Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Middle East. This collaboration provides global travel opportunities for passengers, with bookings now available. Ethiopian Airlines will commence services from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport to Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi on July 15, and Etihad Airways will introduce daily flights to Addis Ababa starting October 8.
According to Emirates News Agency, this marks the initial phase of a Joint Venture planned for March 2025, promising expanded travel options across both airline networks. The codeshare agreement simplifies travel by allowing passengers to make a single booking with one check-in process, and ensures baggage is transferred to the final destination.
Arik De, Etihad's Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, highlighted the benefits of the partnership, stating that it creates seamless travel opportunities between Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Middle East. The easy connections through Abu Dhabi and Addis Ababa are expected to boost trade, tourism, and provide exceptional travel experiences.
Through this partnership, Etihad passengers will have access to Ethiopian Airlines' extensive African network, connecting via Addis Ababa to 55 destinations across 33 countries, including Entebbe, Kinshasa, Kigali, Lusaka, Harare, and Victoria Falls. Concurrently, Ethiopian Airlines passengers can book itineraries through Abu Dhabi, connecting to Etihad-operated flights to 20 destinations across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East, including Sydney, Krabi, Colombo, and Phnom Penh.
Etihad is committed to meeting Africa's growing demand for air travel by expanding its network in 2025, adding new destinations and increasing frequencies to strengthen continental links.