The described aspects include methods and apparatus for aggregating carriers over a backhaul link between a relay and an evolved Node B (eNB). A first set of subframes of at least a first carrier of a plurality of carriers configured for communicating with an eNB over a backhaul link can be determined. A second set of subframes of at least a second carrier of the plurality of carriers configured for backhaul link communications is also determined, wherein the second set of subframes are different from the first set of subframes. Data received over a plurality of access link carriers can then be communicated to the eNB over the first carrier and the second carrier based at least on the first set of subframes and the second set of subframes.