26 July 2026 16:00 |
Last updated:
26 July 16:20 2026
During the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between Etihad and African Airlines
Summary
Memorandum of Understanding between Etihad Airways and African Airlines: Code sharing, interline agreements, cargo, and loyalty programmes connecting Accra to Abu Dhabi and 118 destinations, effective 24 July 2025.
Connecting 118 Destinations for West African Travellers to Abu Dhabi
Etihad Airways and Africa World Airlines, a Ghana-based carrier connecting Ghana and the broader West Africa region for over a decade, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a strategic partnership. This collaboration will include code-sharing agreements, interline cooperation, cargo collaboration, and loyalty programme enhancements, providing a framework for the two airlines to integrate their networks.
Once implemented, passengers flying with Etihad Airways will benefit from a streamlined journey, travelling on a single ticket across Africa World Airlines’ network from Accra throughout Ghana and West Africa. Simultaneously, Africa World Airlines passengers will have access to Abu Dhabi and onward travel to 118 destinations within Etihad Airways’ global network.
The two carriers also plan to cooperate in air cargo services, linking exporters in Ghana and West Africa to the global capabilities offered by Etihad Cargo. Moreover, enhancements to the loyalty programmes will provide both airlines’ members with increased opportunities to earn and redeem points.
This memorandum, which took effect on 24 July 2026, sets the stage for the launch of Etihad’s dedicated service between Abu Dhabi and Accra on 24 March 2027, with joint flights expected to be available for sale soon after the collaboration commences.
An Optimal Partnership
Arik De, Etihad’s Chief Commercial and Revenue Officer, commented, “Ghana is one of the most vibrant aviation markets in West Africa, and Africa World Airlines represents the ideal partner for us. This framework encompasses passenger services, cargo, and loyalty programmes, connecting Ghanaian travellers and businesses with Abu Dhabi and our network covering the fastest-growing markets worldwide.”
Suhel Mahmoud, Chief Operating Officer of Africa World Airlines, added, “This partnership with Etihad Airways in passenger services, cargo, and loyalty programmes will provide our guests with a direct route to Etihad’s extensive network in Abu Dhabi, supporting greater opportunities for Ghanaian travellers and international businesses.”