Ethiopian Airlines and Etihad Launch Strategic Joint Venture and New Flights Between Addis Ababa and Abu Dhabi

Addis Ababa: 19 March 2025

• Agreement signed in Ethiopia’s capital will unlock stunning networks of both airlines giving passengers seamless connections across Africa, the Middle East and Asia
• Etihad Airways to start nonstop flights from Abu Dhabi to Addis Ababa on 1 October, and Ethiopian Airlines to start flights to Abu Dhabi from 15 July
• Addis Ababa marks Etihad’s fifteenth new destination for 2025, whereas Abu Dhabi becomes Ethiopian Airlines' 145th global destination

The national airlines of the United Arab Emirates and Ethiopia have joined forces in a landmark Joint Venture that will transform connectivity between Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Signed today at Ethiopian Airlines' headquarters in Addis Ababa, this strategic partnership also includes a codeshare arrangement, unlocking greater travel opportunities for passengers across both networks.

As part of this collaboration, the airlines are launching new flights between Abu Dhabi and Addis Ababa, strengthening ties between the two regions. Ethiopian Airlines will commence services from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) to Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) on 15 July, while Etihad Airways will introduce daily flights to Addis Ababa starting 1 October.

The flight schedule is as follows:

ET 614 will depart from Addis Ababa (ADD) at 09:50 p.m. and arrives at Abu Dhabi (AUH) at 03:10 a.m.

ET 615 will depart from Abu Dhabi (AUH) at 04:25 a.m. and arrives at Addis Ababa (ADD) at 07:45 a.m.

Subject to regulatory approval, the Etihad – Ethiopian Joint venture will enable both airlines to collaborate in developing and expanding routes between the UAE and Ethiopia, as well as enhancing connectivity across their respective networks. This partnership is designed to deliver greater value to passengers by strengthening links between Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, resulting in a more seamless and comprehensive combined network.

Mr. Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, remarked: 'We are delighted to enter into this strategic Joint venture with Etihad Airways. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in our efforts to enhance connectivity between Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. By leveraging our combined networks, we are committed to providing our passengers with greater travel convenience and exceptional service. This partnership underscores our dedication to fostering strong bilateral relations and promoting economic growth between Ethiopia and the UAE.”

“As part of our strategy to strengthen Ethiopian Airlines' global presence, the launch of our new flight to Abu Dhabi marks our third destination in the UAE, following Dubai and Sharjah (Cargo). With over 120 weekly passenger and cargo services to the Middle East and Gulf states, we are committed to providing exceptional connectivity and service to both our customers.”

Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “This Joint venture is great news for customers of both airlines. The start of flights between the two great cities of Addis Ababa and Abu Dhabi connects our expanding networks, giving our customers seamless access to a growing list of destinations via our extensive hubs. It also paves the way for deeper discussions on working together across our respective regions on other cooperation, including frequent flyer programs, training and cargo.

“We are excited to extend a warm welcome to Ethiopian travelers visiting Abu Dhabi, where they can experience our renowned hospitality and immerse themselves in the rich culture of our city. From breathtaking beaches and world-class cultural landmarks to thrilling theme parks and tranquil desert landscapes, Abu Dhabi offers a diverse array of attractions for all to enjoy.”

The JV underscores a shared commitment to offering expanded travel options and a smoother journey for passengers traveling between major African destinations on Ethiopian’s network—such as Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; Kampala, Uganda; Kinshasa, DR Congo and Lusaka, Zambia—and key cities in the UAE and Asia, including Etihad destinations in India, Japan and Southeast Asia, such as Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Osaka, Japan; Phuket, Thailand, and upcoming new routes including Phnom Penh, Cambodia and Hanoi, Vietnam.

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

Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa, boasts a rich array of attractions, including the National Museum of Ethiopia, home to the famous fossil "Lucy," and the bustling Merkato market.

Ethiopian Airlines offers extensive connectivity from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, serving numerous international and domestic destinations with smooth transit options.

About Ethiopian

Ethiopian Airlines Group (Ethiopian) is a true African success story, transforming a visionary dream into a globally renowned reality for nearly eight decades. Operating flights to more than 160 domestic and international passenger, and cargo destinations across five continents, Ethiopian bridges the gaps between Africa and the world. Emphasizing passenger comfort and environmental sustainability, Ethiopian utilizes ultra-modern aircraft such as Boeing 737s, 777s, 787s, Airbus A350-900, A350-1000 and De Havilland Q400.

Ethiopian, the Star Alliance member airline, champions in various coveted awards including Skytrax’s ‘Best Airline in Africa Award’ for seven consecutive years, APEX ‘Best Overall in Africa’ award and ‘Leadership in Connecting Africa through Transport’ Award among others. Ethiopian aims to further excel in its success through a strategic plan dubbed ‘Vision 2035’ and become one of the top 20 most competitive and leading aviation groups in the world. Embracing a Pan-African spirit, Ethiopian is pursuing multi-hub strategy through hubs in Lomé, Togo with ASKY, in Lilongwe, Malawi with Malawi Airlines, in Lusaka, Zambia with Zambia Airways, and in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) with Air Congo.

For more information, visit our website at  www.ethiopianairlines.com  email us at CorporateCommunication@ethiopianairlines.com , or call us at (251-11)517-8913/8165/8907.