Etihad Airways and Ibom Air have signed a new interline agreement that will make it easier for international travellers to reach five Nigerian cities through a single booking. The partnership is expected to begin in March 2027, when Etihad launches its planned flights to Lagos and Accra.
The agreement marks a significant development for Nigeria’s aviation industry, potentially improving international access to destinations beyond Lagos and creating more convenient travel options for Nigerians, international visitors, business travellers and members of the diaspora.
Under the arrangement, passengers travelling with Etihad Airways will be able to connect to flights operated by Nigerian carrier Ibom Air to Abuja, Uyo, Port Harcourt, Calabar and Enugu. Travellers will also have connecting options between Accra and Abuja, as well as Accra and Uyo.
Tickets combining the two airlines’ networks are scheduled to go on sale on 3 November 2026, ahead of the planned commencement of the connecting services in March 2027.
What Is the Etihad Airways and Ibom Air Partnership About?
The agreement between Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, and Ibom Air, owned by the Akwa Ibom State Government, is designed to connect international flights with domestic and regional destinations in Nigeria.
Rather than arranging separate bookings for an international flight and a domestic connection, eligible passengers will be able to book their entire journey under one reservation.
According to the airlines, passengers’ baggage will also be checked through to their final destination, helping simplify the transfer process.
For example, a passenger travelling from Abu Dhabi to Uyo could book a journey that includes an Etihad international flight to Lagos and a connecting Ibom Air flight to Uyo.This arrangement could make travel more convenient for passengers who need to reach Nigerian cities that are not directly served by their international airline.
The agreement is part of Etihad’s wider plans to expand its presence in West Africa by working with regional airlines that already serve destinations beyond major international gateways.
Five Nigerian Cities to Benefit From the Agreement
The new partnership will connect Etihad’s international network with five Nigerian destinations served by Ibom Air.
The cities are:
- Abuja, Nigeria’s capital is an important destination for government officials, diplomats, business travellers, international organisations and tourists.The agreement could make it easier for passengers arriving through Etihad’s network to continue their journeys to Abuja without arranging a separate domestic booking.
- Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State, is Ibom Air’s home base.The partnership could improve access for international visitors travelling to the city for business, family visits, conferences and tourism. It may also help Nigerians living abroad reach the state with fewer booking complications.
- Port Harcourt is a major commercial centre in southern Nigeria, particularly for the oil and gas industry.Improved connections could benefit professionals, international companies, investors and other travellers who need to reach the city from destinations served by Etihad.
- Calabar is known for its tourism attractions, cultural events and hospitality industry. Better international connections could make the city more accessible to visitors travelling for holidays, festivals, business and family visits.
- Enugu is an important destination in southeastern Nigeria, serving business travellers, residents, returning members of the diaspora and people visiting family.The agreement could offer passengers from international destinations another option for reaching the city through a combined airline booking.The benefits will depend on available flight schedules, connection times, fares and the specific itineraries offered when bookings open.
