Published on
October 13, 2025
Etihad launches sold-out flights to Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Ethiopia, boosting global connectivity, expanding networks, and offering premium travel with A321LR.
Etihad Airways has achieved a major milestone in its global growth strategy with the successful launch of flights to four new international destinations in just one week. The airline introduced services to Krabi in Thailand, Sumatra (Medan) in Indonesia, Phnom Penh in Cambodia, and Addis Ababa in Ethiopia, marking a period of unprecedented expansion for the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates. Each inaugural flight was sold out, reflecting strong market demand and the growing appeal of Etihad’s enhanced network.
This remarkable achievement underscores Etihad’s commitment to broadening its global connectivity and positioning itself as a leading international airline. Over the past 12 months, the carrier has announced 31 new destinations, including upcoming services to Kabul in December and planned routes to Damascus, Palma de Mallorca, and Zanzibar in the first half of 2026. These developments are central to Etihad’s ambitious plan to serve over 125 destinations by 2030, demonstrating the airline’s strategic agility and growth-driven vision.
Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, commented, “This week represents a pivotal moment for Etihad as we introduce four dynamic new cities to our global network. By connecting diverse cultures and economies, we are showcasing how our airline is evolving to be more agile, ambitious, and accessible. These route launches are supported by our strategic investments in modern aircraft like the A321LR, enabling rapid expansion while maintaining the high-quality service our guests expect.”
The addition of the Airbus A321LR to Etihad’s modern fleet has been a key enabler of this rapid growth. This next-generation, fuel-efficient aircraft allows the airline to explore underserved markets in Asia and beyond, providing the right capacity for emerging routes while maintaining exceptional service standards. Routes to Sumatra, Phnom Penh, and Krabi are all operated with the A321LR, highlighting Etihad’s focus on operational efficiency and passenger comfort.
The A321LR delivers a unique premium travel experience, featuring a three-class layout with Etihad’s first-ever narrowbody First Suites. These private, enclosed suites include sliding doors, fully-flat beds, and bespoke design elements typically reserved for widebody long-haul aircraft. First-class passengers can also enjoy enhanced services such as a personal Concierge, Etihad Global Chauffeur, Meet and Assist, and other exclusive benefits, bringing the airline’s signature hospitality to new destinations.
To further engage travelers, all four new destinations are part of Etihad Guest’s Extraordinary Challenge. Members are invited to be the first to visit five, ten, or fifteen of Etihad’s new routes to win up to five million Etihad Guest Miles. The challenge is open until 25 May 2026 to both new and existing members, who can register and track their progress via etihad.com/extraordinary. Participants are encouraged to share their journey on social media using #EYextraordinarymiles.
Flight Schedules
- Medan, Indonesia
- EY480: Abu Dhabi 20:45 → Medan 06:45 +1 (Tue, Thu, Sat) – A321LR
- EY481: Medan 08:55 → Abu Dhabi 12:50 (Wed, Fri, Sun) – A321LR
- Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- EY434: Abu Dhabi 20:45 → Phnom Penh 06:55 +1 (Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun) – A321LR
- EY435: Phnom Penh 08:30 → Abu Dhabi 12:50 (Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat) – A321LR
- Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- EY727: Abu Dhabi 09:00 → Addis Ababa 12:35 Daily – A320
- EY728: Addis Ababa 13:55 → Abu Dhabi 19:15 Daily – A320
- Krabi, Thailand
- EY424: Abu Dhabi 08:45 → Krabi 18:35 Daily – A321LR
- EY425: Krabi 20:55 → Abu Dhabi 00:45 +1 Daily – A321LR
This strategic expansion reflects Etihad Airways’ dedication to delivering seamless international connectivity, premium onboard experiences, and innovative travel opportunities. By tapping into new and high-potential markets across Asia and Africa, Etihad is not only enhancing its network but also strengthening its role as a global airline capable of connecting people, cultures, and economies like never before.
