Etihad launches 9 destinations as summer travel demand surges

by Staff Reporter
ETIHAD A321LR

Etihad Airways has launched four new routes and resumed five seasonal destinations as part of its largest summer schedule to date, with the airline now operating more than 300 flights a day.

The Abu Dhabi-based carrier said summer capacity has increased by 10% compared with the same period last year, supported by the addition of 23 aircraft to its fleet. The airline is also reporting passenger load factors close to 90% across its network.

New routes

Between June 11 and June 14, Etihad launched services from Abu Dhabi to Kraków, Palma de Mallorca, Damascus and Zanzibar.

The new destinations expand the airline’s network across Europe, the Middle East and the Indian Ocean, strengthening connectivity through Abu Dhabi.

Seasonal returns

Etihad has also resumed several seasonal summer routes.

Mykonos and Malaga returned on June 15, while Santorini resumed on June 16. Flights to Nice will restart on June 19, followed by Al Alamein on July 16.

Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “Today, Etihad is flying more guests to more destinations than ever before. We are operating more than 300 flights a day, carrying near-record loads and connecting Abu Dhabi with more destinations than ever before.

“This week alone we have launched four new destinations and welcomed back five seasonal routes, demonstrating both the strength of demand across our network and the pace of our growth.

“As we enter the peak summer travel period, we are delivering our most ambitious summer programme yet. Supported by 23 additional aircraft and strong demand from across the world, we continue to grow with confidence, expanding our network, increasing capacity and bringing more visitors to Abu Dhabi.”

Travel insurance

To support inbound tourism, Etihad Airways and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi have introduced complimentary medical travel insurance for eligible international visitors arriving on Etihad-operated flights.

The programme will run from July to December 2026 and will be administered by Daman. Eligible travellers, including visitors using Etihad’s stopover programme, will receive up to 15 days of medical coverage in the UAE.

With the addition of four new destinations and the return of five seasonal routes, Etihad’s summer network now offers expanded travel options across Europe, the Mediterranean, the Middle East and the Indian Ocean.

tanvir@dubainewsweek.com

You may also like