Etihad Airways and Ghana-based Africa World Airlines have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a strategic partnership covering codeshare and interline services, cargo operations, and frequent flyer programs.
The agreement, signed in Accra, will connect the two airlines’ networks, allowing Etihad passengers to travel on a single ticket beyond Accra to destinations across Ghana and West Africa served by Africa World Airlines.
Customers of Africa World Airlines will also gain access to Abu Dhabi and Etihad’s global network of 118 destinations.
The partnership also includes cooperation on cargo services, linking Ghanaian and West African exporters with Etihad Cargo’s global network, as well as loyalty programs that will allow members of both airlines to earn and redeem rewards across the two carriers.
The agreement comes amid growing trade, investment, and government cooperation between Ghana and the UAE, alongside increasing travel demand between Accra and the UAE.
The MoU took effect on July 24, 2026, with the various areas of cooperation to be introduced in phases. The partnership also supports the launch of Etihad’s Abu Dhabi–Accra service, scheduled to begin on March 24, 2027. Combined itineraries will be available once the interline agreement is implemented.
Arik De Chief Commercial and Revenue Officer – Etihad Airways
“Ghana is one of West Africa’s most dynamic aviation markets, and Africa World Airlines is the natural partner there. This framework spans passenger services, cargo and loyalty, and it will connect Ghanaian travelers and businesses to Abu Dhabi and to our network across the world’s fastest-growing markets. We are here to grow with Ghana.”
Sohail Mahmood, Chief Operating Officer of Africa World Airlines, said that, “Africa World Airlines has proudly connected Ghana and West Africa for more than a decade, with a network that includes Kumasi, Tamale, Takoradi, Lagos, Abuja and Ouagadougou. This partnership with Etihad Airways across passenger, cargo and loyalty will give our customers a direct line to Abu Dhabi’s expansive network, while supporting greater opportunities for Ghanaian travelers and international businesses.”
