Etihad Airways Expands in India with New Routes to Kozhikode and Thiruvananthapuram

Etihad Airways is enhancing its presence in the Indian air transport market by adding two new destinations, Kozhikode (CCJ) and Thiruvananthapuram (TRV) in Kerala, to its network. This expansion, effective from Jan. 1, reflects the United Arab Emirates-based carrier’s focus on the growing Indian market.

The airline has initiated daily flights from its Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) base to both these cities, with the service scheduled to continue through Oct. 26, 2024. This development elevates Etihad’s reach in India, now serving a total of 10 destinations, underlining its commitment to enhancing connectivity to and from the subcontinent.

Etihad CEO Antonoaldo Neves highlighted the significance of this expansion, stating that the airline has established a strong portfolio of nonstop routes between India and Abu Dhabi. These routes provide customers with easier access to Etihad’s expanding network, bypassing the need to transit through major Indian hub airports. Neves emphasized the convenient connections at Abu Dhabi, which facilitate smooth travel to various destinations across the Middle East, Europe, including four daily services to London, and North America.

India has been identified as a priority market by Neves. In 2023, Etihad resumed flights to Kolkata, describing the city as a crucial gateway linking eastern India with global destinations. Additionally, the airline has increased frequencies from Abu Dhabi to New Delhi and Mumbai, from twice daily to four times daily.

The introduction of flights to CCJ and TRV is expected to boost inbound tourism to Kerala, a region famed for its picturesque beaches. These routes are also anticipated to appeal to professionals visiting the rapidly growing business hubs in the area, further strengthening Etihad’s position in the Indian aviation market.