Fastjet, Etihad ink deal

CLOUDINE MATOLA

Etihad Airways and Fastjet Zimbabwe have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish an interline partnership, codeshare agreement and frequent flyer programme, Business Times can report.

The partnership, signed in Harare on Tuesday, will enable travellers to book single-ticket journeys connecting to destinations such as Bulawayo, Victoria Falls and Johannesburg.

Etihad chief revenue and commercial officer Arik De said the partnership with Fastjet would help expand the airline’s African network while allowing passengers to seamlessly connect to more destinations through a single booking.

“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. 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,” De said.

Fastjet Zimbabwe chief executive officer and country head Donahue Cortes said the collaboration would enhance connectivity, provide customers with more travel options and strengthen Zimbabwe’s links to key international markets.

“This marks the beginning of what we believe will be a significant partnership. 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,” Cortes said.