ADDIS ABABA – Ethiopian Airlines and Etihad Airways have established a joint venture (JV) aimed at significantly improving air connectivity between Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, according to an announcement from Ethiopian Airlines.
At the signing ceremony, the Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew stated: “We are pleased to enter this strategic partnership with Etihad Airways. This collaboration represents a key step in our efforts to strengthen connectivity across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. By combining our networks, we will offer passengers enhanced travel options.” from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport to Zayed International Airport on July 15th, while Etihad Airways will commence daily flights to Addis Ababa on October 1st. These new direct flights between Abu Dhabi and Addis Ababa are expected to bolster economic and tourism ties between the two regions.
The joint venture will enable both airlines to coordinate route development, increase flight frequencies, and improve connectivity between the UAE and Ethiopia. This partnership aims to provide international travelers with greater convenience and value by enhancing access to their respective global networks.
The Etihad Aviation Group Chairperson Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa described the joint venture as a “monumental moment” for Etihad and indicated that it represents the beginning of a broader collaboration.
“The commencement of flights between Abu Dhabi and Addis Ababa will provide passengers with seamless access to an expanding range of destinations through our extensive hubs,” said Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa. “This also opens avenues for further cooperation, including frequent-flyer programs, training, and cargo operations.”
He added, “Ethiopian Airlines is highly regarded, and we believe this partnership will significantly expand opportunities for both Etihad Airways and Ethiopian Airlines.”
BY ESSEYE MENGISTE
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 21 MARCH 2025
