Etihad Marks 20 Years of France Operations

France Operations Reflect Etihad Airways’ Continued Network Growth

Etihad Airways has completed 20 years of operations in France, marking two decades since it launched its first Abu Dhabi–Paris service in June 2006. Over the years, the airline has expanded its services in the French market while strengthening connectivity between France, Abu Dhabi and destinations across its global network.

When Etihad began flying to Paris, the airline operated six weekly flights with a fleet of 17 aircraft serving around 34 destinations. Today, it operates up to three daily flights between Abu Dhabi and Paris and also offers seasonal services to Nice on the French Riviera.

The airline now serves 118 destinations across the Middle East, Europe, Africa, Asia, the Americas and Australia with a fleet of 124 aircraft. France remains an important market as Etihad continues to expand its European network through additional routes, increased frequencies and codeshare partnerships.

Abu Dhabi continues to play a central role in Etihad’s network, attracting travellers with its cultural attractions, beaches and leisure experiences. Visitors flying with Etihad can also benefit from complimentary medical travel insurance for eligible international guests visiting the UAE between July and December 2026, as well as the airline’s Abu Dhabi Stopover programme, which offers eligible travellers up to two complimentary hotel nights.

Beyond Abu Dhabi, Etihad connects travellers from France to destinations across Asia and the Indian Ocean, including Bali, Phuket, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, the Maldives and the Seychelles.

Commenting on the milestone, Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said the anniversary reflects the trust of travellers who have chosen the airline over the past two decades while highlighting the growing interest among French visitors in Abu Dhabi and destinations across Etihad’s network.

Etihad Airways continues to invest in its long-term expansion plans, aiming to increase its fleet to around 250 aircraft and further expand its global network in the coming years.

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