Online Reporter
Herald Reporter
ETIHAD Airways and Fastjet Zimbabwe have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a new interline partnership, codeshare agreement and frequent flyer collaboration aimed at improving connectivity and expanding travel options for customers.
The agreement, signed in Harare yesterday, will enable passengers to access destinations served by both airlines through a single ticketing system, making travel more seamless and convenient. Sales under the partnership will commence on August 24.
Under the arrangement, passengers travelling on Etihad Airways will be able to connect onward on Fastjet Zimbabwe services to Bulawayo, Victoria Falls and Johannesburg using a single ticket.
The partnership builds on Etihad’s planned direct service between Abu Dhabi and Harare, which is scheduled to launch on March 24 next year.
The new route will extend Etihad’s reach beyond Harare, providing easier access to Zimbabwe’s major tourism and business destinations, including Victoria Falls and Bulawayo, while offering travellers from across Etihad’s global network a convenient gateway into the country.
For Fastjet Zimbabwe, the partnership opens access to Abu Dhabi and Etihad’s extensive international network, creating new travel opportunities for Zimbabwean passengers across the Middle East, Asia, Europe and other destinations.
Fastjet Zimbabwe customers making a stopover in Abu Dhabi will also have access to the city’s tourism attractions and Etihad’s stopover programme.
The partnership is expected to support tourism, trade and investment by strengthening air links between Zimbabwe and international markets.
Fastjet Zimbabwe will also become Etihad Guest’s 32nd airline partner, paving the way for future frequent flyer benefits across both carriers.
Etihad Airways chief revenue and commercial officer, Mr Arik De, said the partnership reflects the airline’s commitment to expanding its footprint across Africa.
“Africa is an important part of Etihad’s growth, and partnerships like this one with Fastjet Zimbabwe are how we extend our reach and open up more of the continent for our guests,” he said.
“From Harare to Victoria Falls, travellers can now plan their journey across Zimbabwe on a single ticket, and we look forward to building on this cooperation.”
Fastjet Zimbabwe Business CEO and country head Mr Donahue Cortes described the agreement as the beginning of an important relationship between the two airlines.
“This marks the beginning of what we believe will be a significant partnership,” he said.
“We are delighted to be working alongside Etihad Airways, one of the world’s leading airlines, exploring opportunities to improve connectivity, broaden travel options for our customers and further strengthen Zimbabwe’s links with key international markets.”
Fastjet chief commercial officer Ms Vivian Ruwuya said the agreement would provide Zimbabwean travellers with easier access to destinations across the world.
“This partnership opens up the world for our customers in Zimbabwe. From Harare, travellers can now connect onto Etihad’s global network and reach Abu Dhabi and destinations across the Middle East, Asia, Europe and beyond, all on a single ticket.
“We are proud to give the people of Zimbabwe easier access to so many more places,” she said.
