Gateway to 20 African Destinations: Etihad and Air Peace Sign Major Interline Deal

Etihad Airways is strengthening its footprint in Africa through a new partnership with Nigeria's largest carrier, Air Peace, in a move that will significantly expand travel options across the continent.

Etihad Airways. Photo: kamilpetran / Shutterstock.com

The national airline of the United Arab Emirates announced that it has signed an interline agreement with Air Peace, allowing passengers to seamlessly connect between the two airlines' networks on a single ticket. Once implemented, the agreement will give Etihad customers access to 20 destinations across Nigeria, West Africa, and Central Africa.

Air Peace. Photo: Bradley Caslin / Shutterstock.com

Under the partnership, travelers flying with Etihad will be able to continue beyond Lagos and Accra to a wide range of destinations served by Air Peace. These include major Nigerian cities such as Abuja, Port Harcourt, Kano, Enugu, Benin City, Owerri, Warri, and Asaba. The agreement also extends to several regional destinations, including Abidjan, Dakar, Banjul, Freetown, Monrovia, Conakry, Bamako, Douala, and Libreville.

Zuma Rock, Nigeria. Photo: Shutterstock

The announcement comes as Etihad continues its broader expansion strategy across Africa. Earlier this year, the airline revealed plans to launch daily flights between Abu Dhabi and Lagos, reinforcing its long-term ambitions in one of Africa's most important markets.

Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation and one of its largest economies, has become increasingly important for trade and investment ties with the United Arab Emirates. Relations between the two countries have strengthened following the signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in January 2026. In addition, a growing Nigerian community living and working in the UAE has helped drive demand for improved air connectivity.

"Our ambitions in Africa are long term, and Nigeria sits at the centre of them," said Arik De, Chief Commercial and Revenue Officer at Etihad Airways. He noted that partnerships with established regional carriers are key to expanding the airline's reach across the continent.

Air Peace also welcomed the agreement, describing it as an opportunity to connect West African travelers with Abu Dhabi and Etihad's extensive international network.

Combined itineraries will become available through Etihad's booking channels once the agreement officially takes effect, offering passengers a more convenient way to travel between the Middle East and some of Africa's fastest-growing destinations.

The deal marks another step in Etihad's African growth strategy and highlights the increasing importance of airline partnerships in improving connectivity across the continent.