Reconnecting Abu Dhabi to Asia’s gateway
Etihad last operated flights to Hong Kong before the COVID-19 pandemic. The relaunch signifies not only a return to familiar skies but also a strengthening of Etihad’s position in Asia’s fast-recovering aviation market.
The Abu Dhabi-based carrier will operate five weekly flights between the UAE capital and Hong Kong, offering 28 Business Class and 262 Economy Class seats on each 787-9 Dreamliner.
“Hong Kong and its airport catchment area serve this part of the continent very well,” said Alija. “From here, we provide excellent access to Macau and the Greater Bay Area — regions that continue to show immense economic and tourism potential.”
Strong demand from the start
Etihad’s first return flight was fully booked, a clear indicator of rising travel demand between the UAE and Asia.
“Our first flight was fully booked,” Alija confirmed. “We have a very full week ahead, and statistics for November are looking very strong.”
The airline anticipates robust point-to-point travel between Abu Dhabi and Hong Kong while also banking on connecting traffic from Europe and the Middle East through its expanding Abu Dhabi hub.
“People travelling from the UAE to Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area remain our top priority,” he added. “But we also offer very effective connections to and from Europe, which we see as a great market to capture.”
