Etihad Airways to double Nairobi flights as part of African network expansion

KENYA/UAE – Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, is enhancing its African presence by increasing Nairobi service to 14 weekly flights starting 15 December 2025.

This strategic growth follows key agreements with Ethiopian Airlines and Air Seychelles, alongside increased frequencies to several high-demand destinations.

As part of this expansion, Etihad will double its Nairobi service from seven to 14 weekly flights and introduce daily Boeing 787 Dreamliner operations to Casablanca and Johannesburg.

The boost in capacity is expected to cater to the growing demand for both business and leisure travel across the region.

In a notable development, Etihad has entered a new codeshare agreement with Air Seychelles, complementing its recent joint venture with Ethiopian Airlines.

Starting May 2025, the airline will operate six weekly flights between Abu Dhabi and Mahe.

Through this collaboration, travelers will gain seamless access to the Seychelles’ idyllic islands, including Praslin and Mauritius, via onward Air Seychelles services.

Under the codeshare arrangement, Etihad passengers will enjoy a consistent experience across flights, including standard baggage allowance, complimentary meals and beverages, and in-flight entertainment.

Etihad Guest members will also continue to earn miles, regardless of whether they fly with Etihad or Air Seychelles on these routes.

Commenting on the growth, Arik De, Etihad’s Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, said, “At Etihad, we have long recognised the importance of enhancing our presence in Africa.”

We’ve taken a holistic approach over the past year, expanding our fleet, ramping up frequencies, and building strategic partnerships to serve this fast-growing market.”

He added, “The positive feedback from our Nairobi, Seychelles, and Casablanca routes confirms our belief in Africa’s potential. With our expanded collaboration with Ethiopian Airlines and the new flights with Air Seychelles, we’re creating a strong foundation for long-term growth.”

Etihad’s ambitious African expansion continues with the launch of three new direct routes from Abu Dhabi in the second half of 2025.

Flights to El Alamein, Egypt, begin on July 17, followed by Tunis, Tunisia, on November 1, and Algiers, Algeria, on November 7.

These additions underscore Etihad’s strategic focus on underserved yet high-potential markets.

Collectively, these efforts signal a robust new chapter for Etihad in Africa—transforming the airline into a key player connecting the Middle East to the continent’s most dynamic cities and island destinations.

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