Etihad Airways and Abra Group Strengthen Connectivity Across Latin America and the Middle East

Etihad Airways and Abra Group have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a strategic partnership aimed at improving air connectivity between Latin America, the Middle East and Asia through the combined networks of Etihad Airways, Avianca, GOL and Wamos Air.

The partnership supports Abra Group’s strategy of bringing together the strengths of its airline portfolio while aligning with Etihad Airways’ plans to expand Abu Dhabi’s global connectivity through collaboration with airlines in complementary markets.

Under the agreement, the two groups will explore opportunities in network development, codeshare services, reciprocal loyalty programme benefits, aircraft leasing, ACMI services and wider commercial cooperation. The first phase of the partnership, including codeshare agreements and loyalty programme integration between Etihad, Avianca and GOL, is expected to be introduced in 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.

The collaboration aims to improve travel options by providing passengers from Latin America with easier access to destinations across the Middle East, Asia, the Indian Subcontinent and Australia through Etihad’s network. At the same time, Etihad customers will benefit from expanded access to destinations across Latin America served by Abra’s airlines.

The partnership also includes plans to evaluate fleet cooperation. GOL and Etihad will assess the potential dry lease of an Airbus A330-900, with operations targeted to begin in November 2026, while Wamos Air is expected to support Etihad’s future expansion plans.

Commenting on the agreement, Adrian Neuhauser, Chief Executive Officer of Abra Group, said the partnership reflects the group’s strategy of combining the strengths of Avianca, GOL and Wamos Air to expand connectivity and create new commercial opportunities across international markets.

Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said Latin America continues to be an important market for the airline and that the collaboration will strengthen links between the region, Abu Dhabi and Etihad’s expanding global network.

The companies will continue discussions to finalize the partnership agreements, subject to regulatory approvals, commercial arrangements and operational feasibility.

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