Etihad Airways and Ghana’s Africa World Airlines (AWA) have signed a strategic partnership agreement to expand passenger and cargo connections between West Africa, the Middle East and global markets, as the UAE carrier prepares to launch direct flights to Accra next year.
The agreement, announced on Wednesday, provides a framework for cooperation on codeshare and interline services, cargo operations and frequent flyer programs, enabling travelers to book seamless journeys across the two airlines’ networks.
Once implemented, Etihad passengers will be able to travel on a single ticket from Abu Dhabi through Accra to destinations served by Africa World Airlines across Ghana and West Africa. Likewise, AWA customers will gain easier access to Abu Dhabi and Etihad’s global network of 118 destinations.
The partnership also extends to cargo, with both airlines planning to connect Ghanaian and West African exporters to Etihad Cargo’s international network. The airlines also intend to integrate their loyalty programs, allowing members to earn and redeem points across both carriers.
The agreement comes amid strengthening economic ties between Ghana and the United Arab Emirates, with trade, investment and travel between the two countries growing steadily.
“Ghana is one of West Africa’s most dynamic aviation markets, and Africa World Airlines is the natural partner there,” said Arik De, Chief Commercial and Revenue Officer of Etihad Airways.
“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.”
Africa World Airlines said the partnership would significantly expand travel options for customers while supporting regional trade.
“Africa World Airlines has proudly connected Ghana and West Africa for more than a decade,” said Sohail Mahmood, the airline’s Chief Operating Officer.
“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.”
Founded in 2012, Africa World Airlines operates domestic services within Ghana and regional routes to Lagos, Abuja and Ouagadougou, positioning Accra as an important gateway for West African travel.
The memorandum of understanding took effect on 24 July, although the different elements of the partnership will be introduced in phases.
The agreement also lays the groundwork for Etihad’s planned Abu Dhabi–Accra service, scheduled to begin on 24 March 2027. The airlines said combined itineraries will become available for sale once the interline arrangement is activated.
The partnership reflects a broader trend among Gulf carriers to deepen their presence in Africa through alliances with regional airlines, allowing them to extend connectivity beyond major gateway cities while expanding access to fast-growing passenger and cargo markets.
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