Etihad expands China network with five new routes, 28 weekly flights

Etihad Airways has announced a major expansion of its mainland China network, launching five new routes and adding 28 weekly flights, the state-run WAM news agency reported.

The expansion will add services from Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport to Shanghai Pudong, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Hangzhou and Shenzhen. This will bring Etihad’s total operations in mainland China to 35 weekly flights across six destinations, including its existing daily service to Beijing Daxing.

All flights will be operated by the airline’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, configured with 28 business class and 262 economy seats.

Expanded connectivity across key markets

The increase reflects the growing strategic importance of the UAE-China corridor, strengthening links in trade, tourism and investment, according to the report.

The expanded network is expected to enhance the movement of passengers and goods between the two countries and improve access to China’s major commercial, industrial and technology centers. It also aims to strengthen cargo connectivity across manufacturing and export hubs, supporting global supply chains and high-value trade.

All routes will be part of Etihad’s joint venture with China Eastern Airlines, which provides coordinated services across key gateways. China Eastern currently operates routes between Shanghai, Kunming and Xi’an and the UAE.

The expansion is also supported by a cargo joint venture with SF Airlines to strengthen freight connectivity across trade corridors between China and global markets.

Officials cite growing bilateral ties

Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, chairman of Etihad Airways, said the expansion reflects strengthening ties between the UAE and China.

“The ties between the UAE and China continue to flourish, with today’s announcement reflecting the enduring strength and growing promise of our cooperation,” he said, according to WAM.

Antonoaldo Neves, Etihad’s chief executive officer, described China as a “strategically important market” and a key pillar of the airline’s growth.

“This expansion represents a significant increase in capacity and a clear signal of our long-term commitment to the market,” he said.

Neves said the additional destinations and frequencies would support demand for travel and trade while creating opportunities for cargo, business and tourism.

Each of the five destinations plays a distinct role in China’s economy, including Shanghai as a financial and cargo hub, Guangzhou as a manufacturing gateway, Chengdu as a technology center, Hangzhou as a digital economy hub, and Shenzhen as a major technology and export market.

The expansion broadens Etihad’s presence in China and increases access for travelers from the Middle East, Africa, Europe and the Americas to major Chinese cities via Abu Dhabi.