Abu dhabi: Etihad Airways has marked another milestone in its record year of growth, launching four inaugural routes to Tunis, Hanoi, Chiang Mai, and Hong Kong within three consecutive days. The new services further strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a hub and gateway to the UAE, supporting inbound tourism and trade while delivering nearly 45 percent of the UAE’s total aviation growth this year.
According to Emirates News Agency, as Etihad continues to expand its network, the airline is adding thousands of new seats to and from Abu Dhabi. This expansion makes it easier for travellers from Africa and Asia to experience the city’s cultural landmarks, pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and year-round calendar of events. The routes also give UAE residents and visitors more options for travel across key leisure and business destinations.
The new routes from Abu Dhabi include a service to Tunis starting on November 1, with three weekly flights to strengthen Etihad’s North African network and support the growing demand for travel between the UAE and Tunisia. A service to Hanoi is set to begin on November 2, offering six weekly flights and linking Abu Dhabi directly to Vietnam’s capital for the first time, thereby enhancing trade and tourism ties between the two nations. The Chiang Mai route will open on November 3, with four weekly flights, facilitating access to Northern Thailand for travellers from the Middle East and Europe through Abu Dhabi. Additionally, the Hong Kong service resumes on November 3 with five weekly flights, reconnecting Abu Dhabi with one of Asia’s premier business and leisure centres, alongside the relaunch of Etihad’s codeshare with Hong Kong Airlines for improved connectivity across Asia.
Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, commented on the expansion, stating, “Each of these destinations adds its own character to our network – from Tunis’s heritage to Hanoi’s vibrancy, Chiang Mai’s charm, and Hong Kong’s global energy. Together, they expand options for our guests while bringing more visitors to discover Abu Dhabi – one of the world’s most exciting cities. As we continue to deliver almost half of the UAE’s aviation growth this year, our focus remains on connecting more people, cultures, and opportunities through our home in Abu Dhabi.”
These four new routes expand Etihad’s network to more than 85 destinations, emphasizing its crucial role in connecting Abu Dhabi to the world and driving tourism and economic growth for the UAE.