Etihad Strengthens African Connectivity with New Fastjet Zimbabwe Partnership
New Interline Agreement Enhances Travel Options
Etihad Airways has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with Fastjet Zimbabwe to establish an interline partnership, codeshare agreement, and frequent flyer collaboration. This agreement, signed in Harare on July 7, 2026, allows Etihad guests to book travel across Zimbabwe, including destinations such as Harare, Bulawayo, and Victoria Falls, as well as to Johannesburg, South Africa, all on a single ticket. The partnership will be available for bookings starting August 24, 2026.
Expanding Connectivity Across Zimbabwe and Beyond
The new partnership enables Etihad passengers to seamlessly connect to Fastjet Zimbabwe flights, significantly enhancing travel options within the region. This collaboration is particularly noteworthy as it coincides with Etihad’s planned direct service from Abu Dhabi to Harare, set to launch on March 24, 2027. This new route will further extend Etihad’s reach beyond the Zimbabwean capital, making it easier for travelers to access Bulawayo and Victoria Falls.
Fastjet Zimbabwe will become the 32nd airline partner of Etihad Guest, allowing frequent flyer benefits to be enjoyed across both airlines. This partnership not only improves connectivity for travelers but also opens up opportunities for Fastjet Zimbabwe to tap into Etihad’s extensive global network.
Strategic Importance of the Partnership
Arik De, Chief Revenue & Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways, emphasized the significance of this partnership in the context of Etihad’s growth strategy in Africa. He stated that collaborations like this one with Fastjet Zimbabwe are essential for extending the airline’s reach and enhancing travel options for guests. De noted that travelers can now plan their journeys across Zimbabwe more conveniently, reinforcing Etihad’s commitment to expanding its African footprint.
Donahue Cortes, CEO and Country Head of Fastjet Zimbabwe, expressed optimism about the partnership, highlighting its potential to improve connectivity and broaden travel options for customers. He remarked on the importance of strengthening Zimbabwe’s links with key international markets through this collaboration.
Enhanced Travel Experience for Passengers
Vivian Ruwuya, Chief Commercial Officer at Fastjet, pointed out that this partnership significantly enhances travel opportunities for customers in Zimbabwe. With the ability to connect to Etihad’s global network from Harare, travelers can access destinations across the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and beyond, all on a single ticket. Ruwuya emphasized the airline’s commitment to providing easier access to a wider range of destinations for the people of Zimbabwe.
Travel under this partnership will officially commence on August 24, 2026, allowing passengers to benefit from the enhanced connectivity and travel options.
About Etihad Airways
Founded in 2003, Etihad Airways is the national airline of the United Arab Emirates and has rapidly established itself as a leading global airline. Operating from its hub in Abu Dhabi, Etihad serves numerous passenger and cargo destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America. The airline has received multiple awards for its service quality, cargo offerings, and loyalty programs. For more information, visit Etihad Airways.
About Fastjet Zimbabwe
Fastjet Zimbabwe, operational since 2015, is a multi-award-winning airline that connects major cities in Zimbabwe, including Harare, Victoria Falls, and Bulawayo. The airline also offers international flights to Johannesburg and other destinations in South Africa. With a commitment to safety and quality, Fastjet has successfully achieved the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) registration in 2024. The airline has flown over 4 million passengers and continues to enhance its service offerings.
For further details, please contact:
Duty Media Officer
Etihad Airways
Tel: +971 50 818 9596
Email: dutymediaofficer@etihad.ae
Corporate Communications
Fastjet Zimbabwe
Email: corporate.communications@fastjet.com
Source: www.zawya.com
Read all the latest developments and breaking updates in the Latest News section.
Published on 2026-07-08 08:34:00 • By the Editorial Desk
