Etihad and Abra Sign a Strategic Partnership to Connect More Airlines Between Latin America and the Middle East
Etihad Airways and Abra Group have formed a strategic alliance that will enhance connectivity between Latin America, the Middle East, and Asia through expanded routes, loyalty programs, and fleet collaboration.
Etihad Airways and Abra Group have established a strategic partnership focused on enhancing air connectivity between Latin America, the Middle East, and Asia by leveraging the combined networks of Avianca, GOL, Wamos Air, and Etihad Airways.
The partnership, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Farnborough International Airshow, sets a foundation for enduring cooperation in areas such as network development, loyalty programs, aircraft leasing, ACMI operations, and wider commercial collaboration.
The agreement aligns with Abra Group’s strategy of utilizing the complementary strengths of its airline portfolio to unlock new growth opportunities, while also supporting Etihad’s ambition to enhance Abu Dhabi’s status as a global aviation hub.
Under the arrangement, Etihad, Avianca, and GOL will seek reciprocal loyalty program benefits, engage in commercial cooperation, and establish codeshare agreements, with implementation anticipated to commence in 2026.
The collaboration aims to establish a new airbridge connecting Latin America with the Middle East, providing travelers with enhanced access to destinations throughout Asia, the Indian subcontinent, and Australia via Etihad’s extensive network. Simultaneously, Etihad customers will benefit from enhanced connectivity to important destinations throughout Latin America via Abra’s airlines.
In addition to passenger services, the agreement encompasses plans for fleet cooperation. GOL and Etihad are set to assess the dry lease of an Airbus A330-900, aiming for operations to begin in November 2026. Meanwhile, Wamos Air is anticipated to aid Etihad’s growth by introducing up to three aircraft starting in March 2027.
Abra Group Chief Executive Officer, Adrian Neuhauser, stated that the partnership exemplifies the group’s strategy of leveraging the combined strengths of Avianca, GOL, and Wamos Air to enhance connectivity and create new commercial opportunities. This partnership showcases Abra’s approach of utilizing the unique strengths of Avianca, GOL, and Wamos Air to enhance connectivity and create new commercial opportunities. Together with Etihad, we are establishing a new connection between Latin America and the Middle East while seeking creative methods to integrate our brands and operations in areas such as network development, loyalty, and fleet collaboration.
Neuhauser emphasized that the collaboration demonstrates a mutual dedication to providing exceptional service and furthering Abra’s vision of a more interconnected and competitive airline group.
Etihad Airways Chief Executive Officer, Antonoaldo Neves, highlighted the growing significance of Latin America for the airline, noting that the partnership would enhance connectivity via Abu Dhabi. “Latin America is becoming a vital market for Etihad, and this partnership establishes a robust platform to connect more travelers with Abu Dhabi and various destinations within our growing global network. Together, we are forging stronger connections between Latin America, Abu Dhabi, and locations across our global network, enhancing opportunities for our guests while fostering Abu Dhabi’s ongoing development as a destination and hub.”
