Abu Dhabi – Etihad Airways has announced its 15th new destination for 2025, unveiling plans to launch direct flights between Abu Dhabi and Addis Ababa. The UAE’s national airline has also entered into a strategic joint venture agreement with Ethiopian Airlines, marking a significant expansion in connectivity between the Middle East and Africa.
The partnership agreement, signed at Ethiopian Airlines’ headquarters in Addis Ababa, includes a codeshare arrangement and aims to enhance routes between the UAE and Ethiopia, subject to regulatory approvals.
New Routes and Expansion Plans
- Etihad Airways will commence nonstop flights from Abu Dhabi to Addis Ababa on October 1.
- Ethiopian Airlines will launch flights to Abu Dhabi from July 15.
- The agreement strengthens connectivity across both airlines’ extensive networks, offering seamless travel options for passengers.
The launch of Addis Ababa as Etihad’s 15th new destination aligns with the airline’s ambitious expansion plans. Last year, the carrier unveiled 10 new routes, including Atlanta, Taipei, Medan, Phnom Penh, Krabi, and Tunis, with four additional launches scheduled for this year.
Strategic Partnership Beyond Codeshare
Ethiopian Airlines Chairman Yilma Merdassa emphasized that this joint venture extends beyond traditional codeshare agreements, marking a first-of-its-kind collaboration for the airline.
“This partnership is more than a commercial exchange; it’s about fostering strong relationships between our nations and airlines,” said Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of Etihad Aviation Group.
The agreement is expected to enhance collaboration in frequent flyer programs, training, and cargo operations, strengthening air travel links between Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
Fleet and Operations
- Ethiopian Airlines will operate the Abu Dhabi route using Boeing 777 and Airbus A350-1000 aircraft.
- The airline boasts a fleet of 160 Boeing and Airbus aircraft, with 65 additional planes on order.
- Etihad Airways has yet to confirm the aircraft type it will deploy on the route.
Growing Ethiopian Airlines Presence in the UAE
With the launch of flights to Abu Dhabi, Ethiopian Airlines expands its footprint in the UAE, adding to its existing services to Dubai and Sharjah (Cargo operations).
“With over 120 weekly passenger and cargo flights to the Middle East and Gulf states, we are committed to providing exceptional connectivity for our customers,” said Mesfin Tasew, CEO of Ethiopian Airlines.
The joint venture aims to offer expanded travel options for passengers flying between key African cities—including Dar es Salaam (Tanzania), Kampala (Uganda), Kinshasa (DR Congo), and Lusaka (Zambia)—and major destinations in the UAE and Asia, such as Colombo (Sri Lanka) and Islamabad (Pakistan).
“We are thrilled to welcome Ethiopian travelers to Abu Dhabi and showcase the world-class hospitality and culture of our city,” said Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways.
This latest expansion underscores Etihad Airways’ continued growth strategy, enhancing global connectivity and solidifying Abu Dhabi’s position as a key international travel hub.
