Etihad Airways has announced a major expansion of its African operations, significantly increasing flight frequencies and introducing new routes to key destinations across the continent. The move comes as part of a broader strategy to meet rising demand for air connectivity between Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The airline will double its flights to Nairobi, Kenya, increasing from seven to 14 weekly services starting 15 December 2025. This development follows the carrier’s return to the Kenyan capital less than a year ago, underscoring the route’s growing significance in Etihad’s global network.
Etihad is also expanding its presence in the Indian Ocean region through its partnership with Air Seychelles. From May 2025, the airline will operate six weekly services between Abu Dhabi and Mahe, Seychelles. The collaboration will enable Etihad passengers to access additional regional destinations, including Praslin and Mauritius, through Air Seychelles’ onward network. Further reinforcing its African strategy, Etihad will introduce daily Boeing 787 services to Casablanca, Morocco, and Johannesburg, South Africa.
These new frequencies reflect the airline’s intent to build strong connections in North and Southern Africa, while leveraging its long-haul fleet for improved operational efficiency. This growth is supported by Etihad’s strategic partnerships, most notably with Ethiopian Airlines. A recently signed joint venture agreement between the two carriers is expected to enhance regional connectivity and provide greater access to global markets. The alliance includes a codeshare arrangement aimed at boosting both passenger and cargo traffic between Africa, the Gulf, and Asia.
Commenting on the expansion, Arik De, Etihad’s Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, said the airline is implementing a comprehensive growth plan for Africa. “We have long recognised the need to strengthen our presence in Africa. This includes increasing frequencies, expanding our fleet, and building key partnerships,” he stated. By the end of 2025, Etihad will operate a substantially larger network in Africa compared to the previous year.
With four new direct routes from Abu Dhabi to the continent and increased weekly services to several destinations, the airline is positioning itself to meet the evolving needs of both leisure and business travellers. The ongoing expansion reflects Etihad’s long-term commitment to Africa as a strategic market. Through enhanced connectivity and cooperative ventures with regional carriers, the airline aims to facilitate greater access and economic integration across multiple African countries. – By MENA Newswire News Desk.