Etihad Airways is expanding its flight network between Italy and Abu Dhabi in response to a sharp increase in travel demand, marking Italy as one of the airline’s fastest-growing European markets.
Surge in travel demand
Passenger traffic between Italy and Abu Dhabi has jumped by 76% compared to 2023, according to Etihad. The growth comes as Abu Dhabi strengthens its position as both a global hub and a tourism destination.
Jurriaan Stelder, Senior Vice President of Network, Alliances and Industry Affairs at Etihad Airways, said: “The consistent growth we’re seeing from the Italian market highlights Abu Dhabi’s appeal as both a destination and global hub.
“Italian travellers are responding well to our offering, with steady demand across both leisure and business segments. This connectivity is strengthening tourism and supporting deeper ties across trade, culture and investment.”
More flights, premium options
In response to the rising interest, Etihad is increasing its service to triple-daily flights from Milan Malpensa and double-daily from Rome Fiumicino. Starting November, the airline will offer over 10,000 weekly seats per direction between Italy and Abu Dhabi — an 80% rise compared to the same month last year. Premium seat availability will also double to more than 1,000 per week.
The additional Milan service will be operated by the Airbus A321LR, equipped with First class, lie-flat Business seats, high-speed Wi-Fi, and upgraded dining. The aircraft brings long-haul features to shorter European routes.
Strong local partnerships
Etihad is also expanding its reach within Italy through partnerships with ITA Airways and Trenitalia. These alliances allow passengers to connect from 14 domestic airports and 31 train stations to Etihad’s international flights via Milan and Rome.
The airline’s codeshare agreement with ITA Airways, in place since December 2021, enhances connectivity between the UAE and multiple Italian cities.
Stopover interest grows
Interest in Etihad’s Abu Dhabi Stopover programme has also surged. Italian bookings for the complimentary two-night hotel stay have grown by 92% since the start of 2024, reflecting increasing interest in the capital’s cultural and leisure offerings.
Etihad says it is prepared to meet the growing demand from Italy through expanded capacity and ongoing strategic initiatives.
“The solid performance of our Italy routes reflects Abu Dhabi’s position as both a destination for Italian travellers and a convenient global hub,” Stelder added.
“This growth supports tourism while building long-term value through deeper ties with one of our most important European markets.”
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
