Latest news with #Tasew
Al Etihad
01-04-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
After Abu Dhabi, Archer Aviation ties up with Ethiopian Airlines to deploy electric air taxies in Africa
1 Apr 2025 22:45 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD) After choosing Abu Dhabi Aviation (ADA) as its first partner for deploying its Midnight electric air taxis, Archer Aviation has now signed an agreement with Ethiopian Airlines to introduce the aircraft in Africa. Under this partnership, Archer and Ethiopian Airlines will collaborate to establish an all-electric air taxi network in the region using Archer's Midnight aircraft. The two companies are also exploring additional applications for Midnight, including launched its "Launch Edition" programme in February 2025 to create a scalable framework for safely deploying its aircraft in early adopter markets. Through this initiative, Archer aims to demonstrate Midnight's capabilities, drive public acceptance, gain operational experience, and generate early revenue. As part of the agreement, Ethiopian Airlines will receive an initial fleet of Midnight aircraft, supported by a team of Archer pilots, technicians, and engineers. Archer will also provide backend software infrastructure and a booking platform to facilitate urban air mobility partnership was formalised during a signing ceremony in Addis Ababa. Moving forward, both companies will work with the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority (ECAA) to ensure the smooth and safe integration of Midnight into the country's transport Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, said: 'We are committed to pioneering advanced air mobility solutions that enhance connectivity and drive sustainable aviation in Africa. Our partnership with Archer Aviation marks an important step in bringing cutting-edge eVTOL technology to Ethiopia. Together, we aim to redefine regional travel and create new opportunities for efficient, eco-friendly transportation."Archer's Founder and CEO, Adam Goldstein, said: 'Last month, we announced Abu Dhabi Aviation as our first Launch Edition customer—today, we're following that up with our second, Ethiopian Airlines. Africa presents an untapped opportunity for advanced air mobility, with a variety of compelling use cases that we'll be exploring together. I'm proud to be taking this big step forward alongside Ethiopian Airlines.'Alastair Curtis, General Manager, Africa, at Archer, added: 'This partnership with Ethiopian Airlines represents a transformative step in bringing sustainable and efficient air mobility solutions to Ethiopia and the broader African market. At Archer, we're committed to working with forward-thinking partners to unlock the potential of eVTOL technology. This is just the beginning of a new era of aviation for Africa.'Nathan Stickney, Commercial Attaché at the US Embassy in Addis Ababa, commented: 'US aviation companies have time and again highlighted the best of American quality and innovation, and we're excited at the opportunity for Archer to make an impact in the region while making America more prosperous through its new agreement with Ethiopian Airlines.' Archer aims to revolutionise urban travel by replacing lengthy 60–90-minute car commutes with 10–20-minute electric air taxi flights that are safe, sustainable, low-noise, and cost-competitive with ground transportation. Midnight, Archer's flagship aircraft, is a piloted, four-passenger eVTOL designed for rapid, back-to-back trips with minimal charging time between flights. Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
Trade Arabia
20-03-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Etihad, Ethiopian launch strategic JV, new flights
The national airlines of the UAE and Ethiopia - Etihad Airways and Ethiopian Airlines - have joined forces in a landmark joint venture that aims to transform connectivity between Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Signed at Ethiopian Airlines' headquarters in Addis Ababa, this strategic partnership also includes a codeshare arrangement, unlocking greater travel opportunities for passengers across both networks. As part of this collaboration, the airlines are launching new flights between Abu Dhabi and Addis Ababa, strengthening ties between the two regions. Ethiopian Airlines will commence services from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) to Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) on July 15, while Etihad Airways will introduce daily flights to Addis Ababa starting October 1. Subject to regulatory approval, the Etihad – Ethiopian joint venture will enable both airlines to collaborate in developing and expanding routes between the UAE and Ethiopia, as well as enhancing connectivity across their respective networks. This partnership is designed to deliver greater value to passengers by strengthening links between Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, resulting in a more seamless and comprehensive combined network, said a statement. Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, remarked: 'We are delighted to enter into this strategic joint venture with Etihad Airways. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in our efforts to enhance connectivity between Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. By leveraging our combined networks, we are committed to providing our passengers with greater travel convenience and exceptional service. This partnership underscores our dedication to fostering strong bilateral relations and promoting economic growth between Ethiopia and the UAE.' 'As part of our strategy to strengthen Ethiopian Airlines' global presence, the launch of our new flight to Abu Dhabi marks our third destination in the UAE, following Dubai and Sharjah (Cargo). With over 120 weekly passenger and cargo services to the Middle East and Gulf states, we are committed to providing exceptional connectivity and service to both our customers,' Tasew said. Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: 'This joint venture is great news for customers of both airlines. The start of flights between the two great cities of Addis Ababa and Abu Dhabi connects our expanding networks, giving our customers seamless access to a growing list of destinations via our extensive hubs. It also paves the way for deeper discussions on working together across our respective regions on other cooperation, including frequent flyer programs, training and cargo. 'We are excited to extend a warm welcome to Ethiopian travelers visiting Abu Dhabi, where they can experience our renowned hospitality and immerse themselves in the rich culture of our city. From breathtaking beaches and world-class cultural landmarks to thrilling theme parks and tranquil desert landscapes, Abu Dhabi offers a diverse array of attractions for all to enjoy.' The JV underscores a shared commitment to offering expanded travel options and a smoother journey for passengers travelling between major African destinations on Ethiopian's network—such as Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; Kampala, Uganda; Kinshasa, DR Congo and Lusaka, Zambia—and key cities in the UAE and Asia, including Etihad destinations in India, Japan and Southeast Asia, such as Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Osaka, Japan; Phuket, Thailand, and upcoming new routes including Phnom Penh, Cambodia and Hanoi, Vietnam. Ethiopian Airlines will operate the new route using its modern fleet, including the Boeing 777 and Airbus A350-1000, providing passengers with a comfortable travel experience. Etihad Airways will operate its daily flights to Addis Ababa with one of its state-of-the-art A320 family aircraft. Ethiopia's capital, Addis Ababa, boasts a rich array of attractions, including the National Museum of Ethiopia, home to the famous fossil "Lucy," and the bustling Merkato market.
