Etihad Airways makes history, connecting Calgary and Abu Dhabi

Etihad Airways is celebrating its inaugural flight to Calgary, marking a historic milestone as, for the first time, travellers can fly non-stop between Abu Dhabi and Calgary.

The new non-stop service will operate four times a week on Etihad’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner, strengthening connectivity between the UAE capital, the Gulf region and Alberta. The launch further reflects the momentum behind Etihad’s continued transformation and growth journey as one of the world’s fastest-growing airlines.

As well, the new service reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a global gateway, connecting Western Canada to Etihad’s expanding network and providing one of the fastest and most seamless travel options to reach destinations across the GCC, India, Asia and Africa, while supporting stronger tourism, trade and investment ties.

This new connection brings Abu Dhabi closer to guests in Western Canada, providing access to a destination that blends culture, leisure and business. From the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Saadiyat Island to the entertainment attractions of Yas Island, Abu Dhabi offers a unique mix of heritage, hospitality and year-round experiences. Travellers can also make the most of Etihad’s stopover program, extending their journey to explore the UAE capital.

Flights are operated by Etihad’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner, bringing the airline’s award-winning long-haul experience to Western Canada. Featuring the airline’s latest Business and Economy cabins, the aircraft combines modern design, advanced technology and Etihad’s signature Emirati hospitality, delivering a seamless travel experience from take-off to landing.

Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways said: “Some routes immediately feel significant, not simply because they connect two destinations, but because of the opportunities they create. Calgary is one of those routes.”

Neves continued: “Today’s launch is a celebration of a new connection between three ambitious success stories. As the world’s fastest-growing airline, Etihad continues to invest in its future through network expansion, fleet growth and an unwavering focus on guest experience, underpinned by the ambition that has shaped both the airline’s evolution and Abu Dhabi’s rise as a global destination and gateway. Calgary shares that same forward-looking outlook, with a dynamic economy, growing international connections and a strong spirit of innovation. Together, they create a powerful new connection that opens opportunities for travellers, businesses, and communities on both sides.”

Joseph Schow, Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration said: “The arrival of Etihad Airways in Calgary is another sign of Alberta’s growing connections around the world. Our recent trade missions are translating into commercial momentum, reflecting confidence in our market and recognition of the value our province offers. This new direct route to Abu Dhabi will help connect Alberta businesses and travellers with new markets and opportunities across the Gulf region and beyond, while supporting stronger trade, investment and tourism ties. We are proud to welcome Etihad to Alberta.”

“Today, the distance between Calgary and Abu Dhabi feels a whole lot shorter,” said Chris Dinsdale, President and CEO, Calgary Airports. “With Etihad’s arrival at YYC, we’re creating a direct link between two dynamic regions as we open Calgary to the world and the world to Calgary. We’re proud to see this partnership take flight and even prouder to welcome Etihad’s first guests to Calgary.”

“This is a significant milestone as Calgary becomes more connected to the world than ever before,” said Alisha Reynolds, President & CEO of Tourism Calgary. “Calgary is a fast-growing, diverse city with incredible landscapes and experiences to discover. We’re thrilled to welcome more travellers from around the world with our signature warm, western hospitality that makes a trip to Calgary unforgettable.”

Calgary becomes Etihad’s second destination in Canada and its westernmost gateway, complementing the airline’s long-established Toronto service. The new route reflects Etihad’s long-term commitment to Canada and ambition to connect more travellers, businesses and communities with Abu Dhabi, while supporting stronger tourism, trade and investment ties between Canada, the UAE and key markets across Etihad’s global network, and reinforcing the airline’s continued growth and global expansion in high-potential markets where demand continues to grow.

Go to www.etihad.com for more.