Etihad Airways Expands Flights as Travel Demand Surges

Etihad Airways has announced a major expansion of its flight network by increasing capacity on several international routes in response to rising travel demand. The airline will introduce additional flights to Brussels and Kraków, convert its recently launched Abu Dhabi–Dhaka route into a year-round service, and extend seasonal operations to Zanzibar and Palma de Mallorca. The latest schedule changes reflect continued growth in passenger demand across different regions, with the airline focusing on destinations where bookings have remained consistently strong while also improving connectivity through its Abu Dhabi hub.

Dhaka Route Becomes Permanent After Strong Launch

The Abu Dhabi–Dhaka service, which officially launched on 26 June, will now operate throughout the year after its inaugural flight departed with all seats sold. The route currently operates four times a week using a Boeing 777 aircraft configured with 28 Business Class seats and 374 Economy Class seats. In addition to serving the large Bangladeshi community living across the UAE, the route also provides significant belly-hold cargo capacity, helping strengthen trade between the UAE and Bangladesh. The airline said the strong demand from both passengers and cargo operations played an important role in making the service permanent.

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Seasonal Services to Zanzibar and Palma Extended

Etihad Airways has also decided to extend two of its seasonal routes after receiving strong demand from travellers. The Abu Dhabi–Zanzibar service, which was originally scheduled to end in September, will now continue until 31 March 2027, allowing passengers to travel to the popular Indian Ocean destination for a much longer period. Similarly, the airline has extended its Abu Dhabi–Palma de Mallorca route until 18 October 2026. Operated by the Airbus A321LR, the extended schedule gives travellers more opportunities to visit the Spanish island during the seasonal travel period.

Additional Flights for Brussels and Kraków

Etihad is also increasing flight frequencies on two European routes to meet growing passenger demand. The seasonal Abu Dhabi–Kraków service will increase from three to four flights a week beginning 27 July 2026. Operated by the Airbus A321LR, the route provides improved access between Abu Dhabi and southern Poland, one of Europe's well-known cultural destinations. Meanwhile, the Abu Dhabi–Brussels route will expand from seven to 11 weekly flights starting 15 December 2026. The four additional services will also be operated by the three-cabin Airbus A321LR, offering passengers a choice of First, Business and Economy Class.

Etihad Says Demand Has Exceeded Expectations

Commenting on the expansion, Arik De, Etihad Airways Chief Revenue & Commercial Officer, said the response from passengers has been stronger than the airline had expected across a range of destinations, including Brussels, Dhaka, Kraków, Zanzibar and Palma. He said Etihad is increasing capacity where demand is highest by adding more flights and extending seasonal services. According to De, these changes will not only improve travel options for passengers but also help bring more visitors to Abu Dhabi while strengthening connections across Etihad Airways' growing global network.