Post by : Rameen Ariff

Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates, has marked a major milestone by launching four new international routes in just one week, reflecting its ambitious strategy to strengthen global connectivity and enhance passenger travel experiences. The newly added destinations include Krabi (Thailand), Phnom Penh (Cambodia), Medan (Sumatra, Indonesia), and Addis Ababa (Ethiopia). This expansion underlines Etihad’s commitment to connecting more travelers to key international markets.

Rapid Network Expansion
The week of October 13, 2025, witnessed Etihad Airways achieving a historic feat with the launch of these four destinations. All inaugural flights were reported sold out, highlighting strong demand for new routes and growing interest in the airline’s services. These additions align with Etihad’s long-term plan to strengthen its presence in emerging markets across Southeast Asia and Africa, fostering business, tourism, and cultural exchanges.

New Routes Enhance Connectivity
The new routes provide passengers with more convenient travel options:

• Krabi, Thailand: A popular leisure destination, known for its stunning beaches and limestone cliffs, will have daily flights operated with the Airbus A321LR, enhancing Etihad’s footprint in Southeast Asia.

• Phnom Penh, Cambodia: The capital city, growing as a hub for business and tourism, will have four weekly flights connecting Abu Dhabi and Phnom Penh, also operated by the A321LR.

• Medan, Indonesia: As Sumatra’s largest city, Medan will be served with three weekly flights, facilitating tourism and business travel between the UAE and Indonesia.

• Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: A key African hub, Addis Ababa will have daily flights operated with the Airbus A320, expanding Etihad’s reach in Africa and improving connectivity for both business and leisure travelers.

Fleet Modernization with Airbus A321LR
Etihad Airways’ rapid expansion is supported by its modernized fleet, particularly the Airbus A321LR, a fuel-efficient aircraft designed for emerging markets. This aircraft allows Etihad to efficiently serve new and underserved destinations while maintaining passenger comfort and operational flexibility.

Engaging Passengers: The Extraordinary Challenge
To celebrate the new routes, Etihad Guest members can participate in the “Extraordinary Challenge,” encouraging travelers to visit 5, 10, or 15 new destinations by May 25, 2026, to win up to five million Etihad Guest Miles. This initiative incentivizes frequent flyers to explore Etihad’s expanding network while earning rewards.

Flight Schedules:

• Abu Dhabi – Medan: EY480, Tue/Thu/Sat, A321LR

• Medan – Abu Dhabi: EY481, Wed/Fri/Sun, A321LR

• Abu Dhabi – Phnom Penh: EY434, Mon/Wed/Fri/Sun, A321LR

• Phnom Penh – Abu Dhabi: EY435, Mon/Tue/Thu/Sat, A321LR

• Abu Dhabi – Addis Ababa: EY727, Daily, A320

• Addis Ababa – Abu Dhabi: EY728, Daily, A320

• Abu Dhabi – Krabi: EY424, Daily, A321LR

• Krabi – Abu Dhabi: EY425, Daily, A321LR

Etihad Airways’ launch of flights to Krabi, Phnom Penh, Medan, and Addis Ababa demonstrates its strong commitment to global connectivity, expanding opportunities for both business and leisure travelers. The integration of the Airbus A321LR and initiatives like the Extraordinary Challenge highlight Etihad’s focus on innovation, customer engagement, and sustainable growth in international aviation.

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