The new codeshare links Africa to Asia through a strategic agreement between Etihad Airways and Ethiopian Airlines, enhancing connectivity across two continents. Effective immediately, passengers from both carriers can now book seamless itineraries that connect major hubs like Abu Dhabi and Addis Ababa to a wide array of international destinations.
This agreement marks the first phase of a broader Joint Venture plan announced earlier this year, positioning both airlines to significantly expand their global reach. Etihad Airways will begin operating daily flights to Addis Ababa from 8 October 2025, while Ethiopian Airlines will launch its new route from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport to Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport starting 15 July 2025. These new routes are now open for booking.
Seamless Connections Across Continents
Under the codeshare agreement, travelers can book their journeys with a single ticket and enjoy the convenience of one check-in process. Baggage will be automatically transferred to the final destination, simplifying the overall travel experience. This is especially valuable for passengers traveling long-haul between Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.
Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways, emphasized the partnership’s significance: “By leveraging our combined networks, we are unlocking seamless travel opportunities between Africa and Asia, Australia, and the Middle East. Easy connections via Abu Dhabi and Addis Ababa will enhance flexibility, boosting trade and tourism, and delivering unparalleled travel experiences to guests of both airlines.”
Expanded Access to African and Asian Destinations
| From | Hub | Destination Regions | Number of Destinations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Etihad Airways | Abu Dhabi | Asia, Australia, Middle East | 20 destinations |
| Ethiopian Airlines | Addis Ababa | Sub-Saharan Africa | 55 destinations in 33 countries |
Etihad passengers will now gain access to Ethiopian Airlines’ extensive African network through Addis Ababa. Cities such as Kigali, Kinshasa, Lusaka, Harare, Victoria Falls, and Entebbe are among the destinations newly accessible under the codeshare. Conversely, Ethiopian travelers can now fly through Abu Dhabi to reach major destinations like Sydney, Colombo, Krabi, and Phnom Penh.
Responding to Growing Demand in Africa
The partnership reflects Etihad Airways’ increasing commitment to Africa, one of the fastest-growing air travel markets in the world. In 2025, Etihad is expanding its African operations with new routes and added frequencies. This codeshare with Ethiopian Airlines supports that growth by offering deeper access into the African continent via a well-established partner.
For Ethiopian Airlines, the agreement enhances access to East Asia, Southeast Asia, and Oceania through Etihad’s global hub in Abu Dhabi. The codeshare is expected to foster increased trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between emerging markets in both regions.
Strategic Alignment and Future Growth
This agreement is the foundation for a planned Joint Venture between the two carriers, as announced in March 2025. Once fully implemented, the Joint Venture will offer expanded scheduling coordination, integrated services, and potentially joint marketing strategies. This will provide travelers with more choices, flexibility, and competitive pricing across both networks.
Through this enhanced partnership, Etihad and Ethiopian aim to redefine long-haul travel between Africa and Asia. The codeshare agreement is already reshaping the landscape by delivering a streamlined booking process, improved passenger experience, and access to over 70 destinations combined. With both airlines positioned as regional leaders, their collaboration signals a new era in intercontinental air travel.
