Etihad Airways has announced a major expansion of its China network, launching five new routes and adding 28 weekly flights as it deepens its presence in one of its most strategic markets.
The airline will introduce services from Abu Dhabi to Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Hangzhou and Shenzhen, bringing its total mainland China operation to 35 weekly flights across six destinations, including its existing Beijing service. All routes will be operated by Boeing 787-9 aircraft.
The expansion significantly increases capacity between the UAE and China and reflects growing demand across one of the world’s key economic corridors. Etihad said the additional flights will support both passenger traffic and cargo flows, linking major Chinese commercial and manufacturing centres with markets in the Middle East, Europe, Africa and North America.
The new services will operate as part of Etihad’s joint venture with China Eastern Airlines, enhancing connectivity between the two countries. The airline is also strengthening cargo links through its partnership with SF Airlines to support global supply chains.'
Etihad said the move underlines its long-term commitment to China, as it seeks to position Abu Dhabi as a key global gateway for travel and trade while capturing growing demand for business, tourism and freight services.
“The expanded network, made possible by our long-standing partnership with China Eastern, connects unique tourism destinations with burgeoning trading hubs, delivering shared and lasting economic prosperity and value to our people,” said HisMohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of Etihad Airways.
