Ethiopian and Etihad Launch JV, Addis Ababa-Abu Dhabi Service

Ethiopian Airlines and Etihad Airways 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.

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.

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.

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