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Etihad Airways has unveiled its expansion plans by announcing the launch of ten new routes, set to commence in 2025. By 2025, the airline will operate over 90 destinations across over 50 countries with a fleet of over 110 aircraft, including the latest Airbus A321LRs.
Etihad Airways New Routes
The ten destinations introduced by Etihad reflect a wide array of cultural, business, and leisure travel opportunities:
- Algiers, Algeria: Known for its unique blend of French colonial architecture and Islamic influences, Algiers offers visitors historic sites, vibrant markets, and scenic Mediterranean coastlines.
- Atlanta, USA: A major business and transportation hub in Georgia, Atlanta is recognized for its thriving tech industry, Southern hospitality, and various attractions ranging from historic landmarks to vibrant dining and sports scenes.
- Chiang Mai, Thailand: Renowned as the cultural heart of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is celebrated for its ancient temples, lush mountains, and bustling night markets.
- Hanoi, Vietnam: The Vietnamese capital combines centuries-old architecture with Southeast Asian, Chinese, and French cultural influences. Highlights include the historic Old Quarter and the tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake.
- Hong Kong, China: A global financial hub and cultural melting pot, Hong Kong features a dramatic skyline, diverse culinary offerings, and iconic attractions like Victoria Peak.
- Krabi, Thailand: A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, Krabi is famous for its limestone cliffs, clear waters, and stunning beaches. It offers opportunities for rock climbing, snorkelling, and island exploration.
- Medan, Indonesia: Located in Sumatra, Medan serves as a gateway to natural wonders such as Lake Toba and Bukit Lawang, which are known for their orangutan populations. The city also boasts a rich culinary scene and colonial-era architecture.
- Phnom Penh, Cambodia: Cambodia’s capital blends historic charm with modern energy. Key attractions include the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, lively markets and a burgeoning food scene.
- Taipei, Taiwan: This dynamic city combines traditional culture and modern innovation. Taipei is known for its iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper, historic temples, and vibrant night markets.
- Tunis, Tunisia: The Tunisian capital features a UNESCO-listed medina filled with historic buildings and bustling souks. Nearby, the ancient ruins of Carthage offer an additional layer of historical intrigue.
Here is a list of service start dates and aircraft types that will serve each destination;
| Start Date |
Frequency | Departure Airport |
Departure Time |
Arrival Airport |
Arrival Time |
Aircraft Type |
| 2-Jul-25 | Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun | Abu Dhabi | 9:30 | Atlanta | 16:30 | A350 |
| 2-Jul-25 | Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun | Atlanta | 22:00 | Abu Dhabi | 19:30 | A350 |
| 7-Sep-25 | Daily | Abu Dhabi | 21:45 | Taipei | 9:50 | 787 |
| 8-Sep-25 | Daily | Taipei | 19:35 | Abu Dhabi | 0:15 | 787 |
| 2-Oct-25 | Tue, Thu, Sat | Abu Dhabi | 21:10 | Medan | 7:10 | A321LR |
| 3-Oct-25 | Wed, Fri, Sun | Medan | 9:05 | Abu Dhabi | 13:00 | A321LR |
| 3-Oct-25 | Mon, Wed, Thu*, Fri, Sun | Abu Dhabi | 21:10 | Phnom Penh | 7:20 | A321LR |
| 4-Oct-25 | Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri,* Sat | Phnom Penh | 8:40 | Abu Dhabi | 13:00 | A321LR |
| 9-Oct-25 | Daily | Abu Dhabi | 8:50 | Krabi | 18:40 | A321LR |
| 9-Oct-25 | Daily | Krabi | 20:40 | Abu Dhabi | 0:30 | A321LR |
| 1-Nov-25 | Tue, Thu, Sat | Abu Dhabi | 2:50 | Tunis | 6:50 | A321LR |
| 1-Nov-25 | Tue, Thu, Sat | Tunis | 10:20 | Abu Dhabi | 19:10 | A321LR |
| 3-Nov-25 | Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun | Abu Dhabi | 21:10 | Chiang Mai | 5:55 | A321LR |
| 4-Nov-25 | Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat | Chiang Mai | 8:45 | Abu Dhabi | 13:00 | A321LR |
| 3-Nov-25 | Daily | Abu Dhabi | 8:50 | Hanoi | 18:10 | A321LR |
| 3-Nov-25 | Daily | Hanoi | 19:25 | Abu Dhabi | 0:30 | A321LR |
| 3-Nov-25 | Daily except Tue and Sat | Abu Dhabi | 21:45 | Hong Kong | 8:40 | 787 |
| 4-Nov-25 | Daily except Wed and Sun | Hong Kong | 19:25 | Abu Dhabi | 0:15 | 787 |
| 7-Nov-25 | Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun | Abu Dhabi | 2:50 | Algiers | 7:40 | A321LR |
| 7-Nov-25 | Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun | Algiers | 9:40 | Abu Dhabi | 19:10 | A321LR |
The introduction of Atlanta as a new destination brings the total number of Etihad’s North American gateways to six, including Toronto (YYZ) and Boston (BOS). Chicago (ORD), Washington DC (IAD) and Atlanta (ATL). South America remains a ‘dead zone’ for Etihad, with zero flights connecting the continent to Abu Dhabi. Here is a look at Etihad’s global network;
Etihad’s free stopover program, in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, will continue to play a central role in its strategy. Travellers can add a stopover in Abu Dhabi and enjoy complimentary hotel stays for one or two nights at select premium properties. The latest destinations will connect Abu Dhabi to key cities worldwide, enhancing its reputation as a leisure, business, and cultural tourism center.
Takeaway
The new Etihad Airways routes announced are an exciting prospect for points enthusiasts. They unlock many more destinations globally and allow users to leverage the Abu Dhabi stopover.
I prefer Etihad Business Class over other Middle East carriers, having recently experienced their service on an A350 from Chicago to Abu Dhabi or A380 Business Class Studios from London to Abu Dhabi. The addition of these ten routes, particularly a new North American gateway in Atlanta, bodes well for point availability across the network. As a Canadian resident, Aeroplan continues to be my primary program to book Etihad Airways, with the American AAdvantage program being a strong secondary program thanks to the ability to convert RBC Avion points when needed.
Image Credit: Etihad Airways
