Etihad Airways has officially commenced its new daily flight service to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, establishing a direct connection between Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport (AUH) and Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD), Xpats.ae reports.
The inaugural flights departed at full capacity in both directions, signaling robust passenger demand for travel between the two capital cities and highlighting the growing interest in Ethiopia–UAE connectivity.
This launch marks the operational start of Etihad’s strategic Joint Venture with Ethiopian Airlines, which was announced earlier this year. The partnership strengthens cooperation between the two national carriers and broadens travel opportunities across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, offering passengers a more seamless travel experience.
Through this Joint Venture, Etihad Airways and Ethiopian Airlines will align their flight schedules, jointly develop new routes, and enhance coordination to provide greater flexibility and convenience for travelers. The partnership also aims to deepen commercial, cultural, and tourism ties between the regions.
Additionally, the agreement opens avenues for expanded collaboration in key sectors such as loyalty programs, workforce training, and cargo services—reflecting both airlines’ united commitment to offering a well-connected and efficient global network.
Under the new arrangement, Etihad passengers can now access over 55 destinations across 33 African nations through Ethiopian Airlines’ Addis Ababa hub. Meanwhile, Ethiopian Airlines customers gain streamlined access via Abu Dhabi to more than 20 destinations across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.
The launch of this new route represents a major milestone in Etihad’s growth strategy within Africa. By the end of 2025, the airline plans to expand its regional presence by doubling its Nairobi services to 14 weekly flights, adding more frequencies to Casablanca and Johannesburg, and advancing its partnership with Air Seychelles.
Looking ahead, Etihad Airways continues its African expansion with the upcoming addition of new North African destinations, including Tunis and Algiers, set to join its global network next month.
