Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, and Nigerian carrier Ibom Air have signed an interline agreement to enhance travel options for passengers. The agreement allows guests to travel on a single ticket to multiple destinations in Nigeria. This partnership is expected to boost connectivity between Nigeria and international destinations. The deal was announced in a statement released by the airlines. The agreement is set to take effect from March 2027.
The interline agreement will enable Etihad guests arriving in Lagos or Accra to continue their journey on Ibom Air to five Nigerian cities. These cities include Abuja, Uyo, Port Harcourt, Calabar, and Enugu. Additionally, connections will be available between Accra and Abuja and between Accra and Uyo. This means that passengers can now travel to these cities on a single ticket, making travel more convenient. The agreement also allows for checked baggage to be through to the final destination.
According to the airlines, the arrangement will serve guests travelling for business, to see family, or to explore the country. The partnership is expected to benefit passengers who travel frequently. Etihad’s nonstop service from Abu Dhabi to the region is scheduled to begin next year. The airline will operate four flights a week to Accra from March 24, 2027, and a daily service to Lagos from March 23, 2027. This new service will provide more travel options for passengers.
Etihad Airways Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer expressed the airline's long-term ambitions in Africa. Nigeria is a key market for the airline, and the partnership with Ibom Air is a strategic move. The airline believes that partnerships with local airlines are essential for growth on the continent. Ibom Air has built a strong domestic network from its base in Uyo, making it an ideal partner for Etihad.
George Uriesi, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Ibom Air, welcomed the agreement. He described it as a significant milestone in the airline’s journey to becoming a truly world-class African regional airline. The partnership will enable international travellers to access the cities served by Ibom Air through a single booking. This will enhance connectivity and convenience for passengers.
The agreement also positions Ibom Air as the key domestic and regional connection for Etihad Airways’ operations into Nigeria and Ghana. Ibom Air looks forward to welcoming Etihad’s guests onboard and showcasing its excellent service. The partnership is expected to benefit both airlines and provide more travel options for passengers. Tickets combining both networks will become available on November 3, 2026.
The interline agreement between Etihad Airways and Ibom Air is a significant development in the aviation industry. The partnership will expand connectivity between Nigeria and international destinations. Key benefits of the agreement include travel on a single ticket to multiple destinations and checked baggage through to the final destination.
Key points
- The interline agreement will enable guests to travel on a single ticket to five Nigerian cities.
- Etihad’s nonstop service from Abu Dhabi to the region is scheduled to begin next year.
- The partnership positions Ibom Air as the key domestic and regional connection for Etihad Airways’ operations into Nigeria and Ghana.
