Etihad Airways, Ibom Air sign interline deal to boost connectivity

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, and Nigerian carrier Ibom Air have signed an interline agreement that will carry guests travelling with Etihad beyond Lagos and Accra to five Nigerian cities on a single ticket, from the day Etihad’s own services to the two cities begin in March 2027.

Under the agreement, Etihad guests arriving in Lagos or Accra will be able to continue their journey on Ibom Air to Abuja, Uyo, Port Harcourt, Calabar and Enugu, with connections also available between Accra and Abuja and between Accra and Uyo.

According to the arrangements, one booking will cover the entire journey, with bags checked through to the final destination.

Uyo and Calabar in the south join Abuja, Port Harcourt and Enugu on the list of Nigerian cities available on a single ticket with Etihad, whether guests are travelling for business, to see family or to see the country.

Etihad’s nonstop service from Abu Dhabi to the region begins next year, with four flights a week to Accra from 24 March 2027 and a daily service to Lagos from 23 March 2027.

Commenting, Arik De, Etihad Airways Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, said “Our ambitions in Africa are long-term, and Nigeria sits at the centre of them. Ibom Air has built a strong domestic network from its base in Uyo, and partnerships with airlines that know their own markets are how we grow on the continent. Having this in place before our Accra and Lagos flights begin next March means we arrive in the region already connected to the cities beyond them.”

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Also commenting, George Uriesi, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Ibom Air, said “This agreement marks a significant milestone in our journey to becoming a truly world-class African regional airline. It enables international travellers to access the cities we serve through a single booking, enhancing connectivity and convenience.

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Additionally, it positions Ibom Air as the key domestic and regional connection for Etihad Airways’ operations into Nigeria and Ghana from next year. We look forward to welcoming Etihad’s guests onboard and showcasing the excellent service that defines the Ibom Air experience.”