Etihad Airways Expands Abu Dhabi-Sydney Flights for Summer 2025
Etihad Airways has unveiled its ambitious plans to boost connectivity between Abu Dhabi and Sydney, alongside significant frequency increases across its global network. Announcing its summer 2025 schedule, Etihad aims to enhance its service offerings to key destinations, reflecting its commitment to growth and supporting tourism in Abu Dhabi.
Starting July 2025, Etihad will increase its direct flights between Abu Dhabi and Sydney from seven to ten weekly services. This expansion includes adding three additional flights per week, providing passengers with more flexibility and convenience. Additionally, Etihad is introducing a new daily flight between Abu Dhabi and Denpasar, Bali, to cater to the high demand during the northern summer season in the Asia-Pacific region.
In Europe, Etihad is elevating its service by launching double daily flights to major cities such as Paris, Milan, Rome, Manchester, Frankfurt, Munich, Zurich, Barcelona, and Madrid. This marks the first time many of these routes will operate twice daily, significantly improving travel options for both leisure and business travelers. Furthermore, seasonal flights to Malaga, Spain, will increase to five weekly departures, meeting the growing demand for Mediterranean destinations.
The new daily European flights are strategically timed for morning and evening departures and arrivals. This scheduling provides travelers with the convenience of early hotel check-ins and maximizes their time exploring Abu Dhabi’s attractions. Evening arrivals are particularly beneficial for business travelers, allowing seamless transitions after a full day of work or commitments. “We are delivering on our strategic promise to serve more key destinations twice daily as fast as we can,” said Arik De, Etihad Airways Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer. “Our summer schedule underscores our commitment to growth and further supporting tourism in Abu Dhabi.”
Etihad’s enhanced flight schedules are part of its broader “Journey 2030” strategy, which aims to solidify Abu Dhabi’s position as a major travel hub connecting Asia and Europe. By 2030, Etihad plans to expand its global network to serve over 125 airports, up from the current 70. This expansion will be supported by growing its fleet from 103 to over 160 aircraft, incorporating both Boeing and Airbus models to meet increasing passenger demand.
In addition to route expansions, Etihad is also exploring a potential Initial Public Offering (IPO) slated for 2025. Reports from the Cyprus Mail and other media outlets indicate that Etihad, currently owned by sovereign wealth fund ADQ, plans to debut its shares on the stock market no earlier than 2025. This IPO would mark a significant milestone as the first major Gulf airline to go public, signaling Etihad’s confidence in its growth trajectory and financial stability.
The decision to delay the IPO until 2025 follows the anticipation of strong financial results for 2024 and considerations of regional geopolitical stability. Etihad aims to leverage its robust performance and strategic expansions to attract investors and strengthen its market presence globally.
Etihad Airways’ proactive approach in increasing flight frequencies and expanding its fleet underscores its dedication to providing exceptional travel experiences. By offering more flight options and enhancing connectivity, Etihad ensures that passengers have greater flexibility and convenience in their travel plans. The airline’s commitment to growth and innovation positions it as a leading player in the competitive aviation industry, ready to meet the evolving needs of travelers worldwide.
As Etihad continues to implement its “Journey 2030” strategy, passengers can look forward to an expanded network, increased flight frequencies, and a modernized fleet, all designed to enhance their travel experience. With these strategic initiatives, Etihad Airways is set to strengthen its role as a premier global airline, connecting Abu Dhabi with the world more efficiently and effectively than ever before.