Etihad and Ibom Air Sign Major Interline Deal Ahead of 2027 West Africa Launch

International travel to Nigeria is set to become significantly more seamless following a major interline agreement signed between Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates, and Nigerian carrier Ibom Air.

The partnership will allow global travellers to connect to five Nigerian cities on a single ticket, linking Etihad’s expansive global network directly with Ibom Air’s domestic routes.

The agreement is strategically timed to go live simultaneously with the launch of Etihad’s new non-stop services to West Africa in March 2027.

Under the framework, international passengers arriving at Etihad’s regional hubs in Lagos, Nigeria, or Accra, Ghana, can transition smoothly to Ibom Air flights without the need for separate bookings.

Seamless Luggage and Network Integration

A core benefit for passengers under the new agreement is single-ticket convenience. One booking will cover a traveler’s entire journey, ensuring that luggage is checked through from the point of origin directly to the final destination in Nigeria.

The deal expands travel options to five key destinations across the country, including Abuja, Uyo, Port Harcourt, Calabar, and Enugu.

In addition to domestic connections from Lagos, the agreement introduces new regional links between Ghana and Nigeria, offering seamless transit options between Accra and Abuja, as well as Accra and Uyo.

Strategic Expansion Plans

Etihad’s highly anticipated return to the region kicks off next year. The airline will introduce a daily service to Lagos on March 23, 2027, followed by four weekly flights to Accra beginning March 24, 2027.

Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways, emphasized that the partnership reflects a long-term commitment to the continent.

“Our ambitions in Africa are long-term, and Nigeria sits at the centre of them,” De said. “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.”

Elevating Regional Aviation

For Ibom Air, which is wholly owned by the Akwa Ibom State Government and operates a modern fleet of Bombardier CRJ 900s and Airbus A220-300s, the alliance represents a major validation of its operational standards.

George Uriesi, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Ibom Air, described the pact as a milestone.

“This agreement enables international travellers to access the cities we serve through a single booking, enhancing connectivity and convenience,” Uriesi stated. “Additionally, it positions Ibom Air as the key domestic and regional connection for Etihad Airways’ operations into Nigeria and Ghana from next year.”