Etihad Expands China Network with New Routes

Etihad China Expansion Adds Flights and Connectivity

Etihad Airways has announced an expansion of its mainland China network, introducing five new routes and adding 28 weekly flights. The move increases the airline’s presence in the market and supports growing travel and trade links between the UAE and China.

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

All routes will be operated with Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, configured with 28 Business and 262 Economy seats, ensuring a consistent onboard product across the network.

The additional capacity reflects the importance of the UAE–China corridor, supporting connectivity across tourism, business and trade. Abu Dhabi continues to develop its role as a transit hub linking China with markets across the Middle East, Africa, Europe and North America.

The expanded network is expected to support passenger travel and cargo movement between the two countries. It will also improve access to China’s commercial and industrial centres, while strengthening logistics links across manufacturing and export hubs.

All five routes will operate under Etihad’s joint venture with China Eastern Airlines, enabling coordinated services between the UAE and China. China Eastern currently connects the UAE with cities including Shanghai, Kunming and Xi’an.

Etihad’s cargo operations are also supported by its partnership with SF Airlines, contributing to air freight connectivity across key trade routes.

Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of Etihad Airways, said the expansion reflects ongoing cooperation between the UAE and China and highlights the role of partnerships in strengthening connectivity between destinations and trade centres.

Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said China remains an important market for the airline’s network plans. He noted that the additional routes and frequencies will support travel and trade demand while contributing to Abu Dhabi’s position as a connecting hub.

Each destination within the expanded network serves a different role within China’s economy and travel landscape:

• Shanghai Pudong (PVG) – financial centre and international cargo hub
• Guangzhou (CAN) – manufacturing and trade gateway in southern China
• Chengdu (TFU) – technology and innovation hub in western China
• Hangzhou (HGH) – centre for digital economy and e-commerce
• Shenzhen (SZX) – technology and export-driven economy

The expansion increases access to China’s commercial centres for travellers across Etihad’s global network via Abu Dhabi.

New Route Summary