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EY and ET Forge Strategic Partnership to Boost Africa-Middle East-Asia Connectivity EY and ET Forge Strategic Partnership to Boost Africa-Middle East-Asia Connectivity

In a groundbreaking move set to transform air travel across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, Etihad Airways and Ethiopian Airlines have signed a landmark Joint Venture agreement. Announced at Ethiopian Airlines' headquarters in Addis Ababa, this partnership aims to enhance connectivity between the regions, offering passengers seamless travel options through a codeshare arrangement and new direct flights.

As part of this collaboration, both airlines will launch new routes connecting their hubs. Ethiopian Airlines will begin flights from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) to Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) on July 15, while Etihad Airways will introduce daily flights from Abu Dhabi to Addis Ababa starting October 1. This marks a significant milestone for both carriers, with Addis Ababa becoming Etihad’s fifteenth new destination for 2025 and Abu Dhabi becoming Ethiopian Airlines' 145th global destination.

The flight schedules have been carefully designed to ensure convenience for travelers. Ethiopian Airlines’ flight ET 614 will depart Addis Ababa at 9:50 p.m., arriving in Abu Dhabi at 3:10 a.m., while ET 615 will leave Abu Dhabi at 4:25 a.m., landing in Addis Ababa at 7:45 a.m. These timings provide smooth connections to onward destinations across both airlines’ extensive networks.

Subject to regulatory approval, the Joint Venture will enable the two carriers to collaborate on expanding routes between the UAE and Ethiopia, as well as enhancing connectivity across their respective networks. This partnership is expected to deliver significant value to passengers by offering a more comprehensive and seamless travel experience. Ethiopian Airlines’ Group CEO, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “This partnership underscores our commitment to fostering strong bilateral relations and promoting economic growth between Ethiopia and the UAE. By leveraging our combined networks, we aim to provide passengers with greater travel convenience and exceptional service.”

Etihad Airways’ CEO, Antonoaldo Neves, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the benefits for customers of both airlines. “The start of flights between Addis Ababa and Abu Dhabi connects our expanding networks, giving our customers seamless access to a growing list of destinations. This partnership also opens doors for deeper cooperation, including frequent flyer programs, training, and cargo services,” he said. Neves also emphasized Abu Dhabi’s appeal as a destination, inviting Ethiopian travelers to explore the city’s rich cultural landmarks, stunning beaches, and world-class attractions.

The Joint Venture is expected to significantly enhance travel options for passengers traveling between major African cities such as Dar es Salaam, Kampala, Kinshasa, and Lusaka, and key destinations in the UAE and Asia, including India, Japan, and Southeast Asia. Upcoming routes to cities like Phnom Penh and Hanoi will further expand the network, offering African travelers greater access to Asia’s growing markets.

Ethiopian Airlines will operate its new route using its modern fleet, including the Boeing 777 and Airbus A350-1000, ensuring a comfortable travel experience. Meanwhile, Etihad Airways will deploy its state-of-the-art A320 family aircraft for its daily flights to Addis Ababa.

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s vibrant capital, offers a wealth of attractions for visitors, including the National Museum of Ethiopia, home to the famous fossil "Lucy," and the bustling Merkato market. Ethiopian Airlines’ hub at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport provides extensive connectivity to numerous international and domestic destinations, making it a key gateway for African travelers.

This partnership between two leading carriers underscores their shared commitment to expanding travel opportunities and fostering stronger ties between Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. For African travel agents, this collaboration presents exciting new possibilities to connect their clients to a broader range of destinations with enhanced convenience and service quality.