By Michael Foli Jackidy, GNA
Ho (V/R), Aug 06, GNA – Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has announced plans to commence four weekly flights between Abu Dhabi and Accra from March 17, 2027, as part of its strategic expansion into Africa.
The airline will operate the route with its Boeing 787-900 Dreamliner aircraft, offering passengers seamless one-stop connections through Abu Dhabi to more than 120 destinations across the Middle East, Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa and North America.
The announcement followed the signing of a Letter of Intent (LOI) between the Etihad Airways and Total Air Alliance Limited (TAAL), a member of the GHI Assets Group, at the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City in Accra.
The agreement formally appoints Total Air Alliance Limited as Etihad Airways’ General Sales Agent (GSA) in Ghana, paving the way for the airline’s entry into the Ghanaian market.
Representing Etihad Airways at the signing ceremony were Mr Javier Alija, Vice President for Global Sales and Distribution, and Mr Khaleefa Mohamed Al Hammadi, Regional General Manager for Sales, Digital and Distribution.
Mr Alija said the launch of the Accra route underscored the Etihad’s commitment to strengthening its presence across Africa.
He expressed confidence in Total Air Alliance’s ability to successfully position the airline in Ghana.
He noted that the new service would provide Ghanaian travellers with convenient access to the Etihad’s global network through its Abu Dhabi hub while enhancing business and tourism links between Ghana, the UAE and other international destinations.
Ahead of the inaugural flight, a dedicated market development team led by Mr Nii Anyetei Akofio-Sowah, the General Manager of Total Air Alliance Limited, has begun engaging key stakeholders within Ghana’s aviation and travel industry.
Mr Akofio-Sowah said the airline’s arrival would introduce Ghanaian travellers to Etihad’s award-winning premium services, modern fleet and renowned Emirati hospitality.
“Etihad is not simply adding another route. It is bringing a complete premium travel experience to Ghana. Our objective is to ensure that when the airline begins operations in 2027, the market is fully prepared for an experience that is more than just a flight,” he said.
He said the market preparation strategy would include close collaboration with travel agencies, online travel agencies, corporate travel managers and other industry stakeholders to build product knowledge and strengthen commercial partnerships.
Mr Christopher Isaiah, Group General Manager, Commercial, GHI Assets Group, said the company’s extensive experience across African aviation markets positioned it to support Etihad’s long-term growth ambitions on the continent.
He described Ghana as the beginning of a broader African expansion strategy aimed at connecting the continent more efficiently to global destinations.
The announcement also highlighted Etihad Airways’ expanding partnerships within Africa, including existing collaborations with Ethiopian Airlines and Air Peace, which are expected to improve regional connectivity and provide passengers with access to an extensive network across West, East and Southern Africa.
Ms Lola Adefope, the Executive Director of Total Air Alliance Limited, described Ghana as an ideal destination for Etihad’s African expansion, citing the country’s growing economy, increasing demand for premium air travel and strong business and diaspora links with the Gulf region and Asia.
She said Ghanaian travellers increasingly sought high-quality services, reliability and seamless international connections, making the country a strategic addition to Etihad’s global route network.
Etihad Airways, headquartered in Abu Dhabi, is recognised as one of the world’s leading premium airlines, operating one of the youngest fleets globally, including Boeing 787 Dreamliners and Airbus A350 aircraft, while offering award-winning hospitality and extensive international connectivity.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Benjamin Mensah