Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, and Ghana-based Africa World Airlines (AWA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a strategic partnership covering codeshare and interline services, cargo operations, and frequent flyer programmes.
The agreement, signed in Accra, provides a framework for the two airlines to integrate their networks. Once implemented, Etihad passengers will be able to book a single ticket beyond Accra to destinations across Ghana and West Africa served by Africa World Airlines. Likewise, AWA customers will gain seamless access to Abu Dhabi and Etihad’s global network of 118 destinations.
Beyond passenger travel, the partnership will also strengthen cargo operations by linking Ghanaian and West African exporters to Etihad Cargo’s global network. The airlines also plan to collaborate on loyalty programmes, allowing members of both carriers to earn and redeem rewards across their respective networks.
The agreement comes amid growing trade, investment and diplomatic ties between Ghana and the United Arab Emirates, alongside increasing travel demand between Accra and Abu Dhabi. The airlines say the partnership lays the foundation for stronger commercial links between the two markets.
The Memorandum of Understanding took effect on July 24, 2026, with implementation of the various areas of cooperation to be rolled out in phases. The partnership also paves the way for Etihad’s planned Abu Dhabi–Accra service, scheduled to commence on March 24, 2027. Combined itineraries will go on sale once the interline agreement becomes operational.
Chief Commercial and Revenue Officer at Etihad Airways, Arik De said: “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 travellers and businesses to Abu Dhabi and to our network across the world’s fastest-growing markets. We are here to grow with Ghana.”
Chief Operating Officer of Africa World Airlines, Sohail Mahmood said: “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 direct access to Abu Dhabi and Etihad’s expansive global network, while creating greater opportunities for Ghanaian travellers and international businesses.”
Officials said further details on the interline, codeshare, cargo and loyalty arrangements will be announced as each phase of the partnership is implemented.
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