The four-times-weekly service marks Etihad’s first direct connection to Western Canada, strengthening links between the UAE, the Gulf region and Alberta while opening opportunities for tourism, trade and investment.
ABU DHABI, UAE: Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has celebrated the arrival of its inaugural flight to Calgary, marking a historic milestone as travellers can now fly non-stop between Abu Dhabi and Calgary for the first time.
The sold-out flight EY29 touched down at Calgary International Airport to a warm Western Canadian welcome. The occasion was marked by a celebratory event attended by representatives of the Government of Alberta, airport officials and tourism partners.
The new service will operate four times a week on Etihad’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, strengthening connectivity between the UAE capital, the Gulf region and Alberta. The launch also reflects the momentum behind Etihad’s continued transformation and growth as one of the world’s fastest-growing airlines.
New Route Strengthens Abu Dhabi’s Global Connectivity
The service reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a global gateway, connecting Western Canada to Etihad’s expanding network. It provides travellers with one of the fastest and most seamless options for reaching destinations across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), India, Asia and Africa, while supporting stronger tourism, trade and investment ties.
The new connection brings Abu Dhabi closer to travellers in Western Canada, offering access to a destination that combines culture, leisure and business. From the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Saadiyat Island to the entertainment attractions of Yas Island, Abu Dhabi offers a mix of heritage, hospitality and year-round experiences. Travellers can also take advantage of Etihad’s stopover programme to extend their journey and explore the UAE capital.
Calgary Opens Access to Canada’s Natural Attractions and Business Markets
For travellers across Etihad’s network, the new route opens access to one of Canada’s compelling destinations. Calgary combines a dynamic business environment with proximity to Alberta’s renowned natural attractions, including Banff and Jasper National Parks and the Canadian Rockies.
As one of Canada’s leading centres for energy, innovation and investment, the city plays an important role in connecting Alberta and the wider country with global markets.
The route is operated by Etihad’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, bringing the airline’s long-haul travel experience to Western Canada. Featuring its latest Business and Economy cabins, the aircraft combines modern design, advanced technology and Etihad’s signature Emirati hospitality to deliver a seamless journey from take-off to landing.
Etihad CEO Highlights Opportunities for Travellers and Businesses
Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “Some routes immediately feel significant, not simply because they connect two destinations, but because of the opportunities they create. Calgary is one of those routes.
“Today’s launch is a celebration of a new connection between three ambitious success stories. As the world’s fastest-growing airline, Etihad continues to invest in its future through network expansion, fleet growth and an unwavering focus on guest experience, underpinned by the ambition that has shaped both the airline’s evolution and Abu Dhabi’s rise as a global destination and gateway. Calgary shares that same forward-looking outlook, with a dynamic economy, growing international connections and a strong spirit of innovation. Together, they create a powerful new connection that opens opportunities for travellers, businesses, and communities on both sides.
“Whether guests are travelling for adventure in Canada, for business in Alberta’s dynamic economy, or to discover Abu Dhabi’s rich culture and attractions, we look forward to welcoming them with the warmth and care that define the Etihad experience and delivering an exceptional journey at every stage of their travels.
“Calgary represents an exciting new chapter in Etihad’s growth story. We are proud to mark this milestone alongside our partners and look forward to building a long-lasting connection between Western Canada, Abu Dhabi and the destinations across Etihad’s global growing network.”
Alberta Government Welcomes Direct Abu Dhabi Connection
Joseph Schow, Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration, said: “The arrival of Etihad Airways in Calgary is another sign of Alberta’s growing connections around the world. Our recent trade missions are translating into commercial momentum, reflecting confidence in our market and recognition of the value our province offers. This new direct route to Abu Dhabi will help connect Alberta businesses and travellers with new markets and opportunities across the Gulf region and beyond, while supporting stronger trade, investment and tourism ties. We are proud to welcome Etihad to Alberta.”
Chris Dinsdale, President and CEO of Calgary Airports, said: “Today, the distance between Calgary and Abu Dhabi feels a whole lot shorter. With Etihad’s arrival at YYC, we’re creating a direct link between two dynamic regions as we open Calgary to the world and the world to Calgary. We’re proud to see this partnership take flight and even prouder to welcome Etihad’s first guests to Calgary.”
Alisha Reynolds, President and CEO of Tourism Calgary, said: “This is a significant milestone as Calgary becomes more connected to the world than ever before. Calgary is a fast-growing, diverse city with incredible landscapes and experiences to discover. We’re thrilled to welcome more travellers from around the world with our signature warm, western hospitality that makes a trip to Calgary unforgettable.”
Etihad Expands Its Canadian Network
Calgary becomes Etihad’s second destination in Canada and its westernmost gateway, complementing the airline’s established Toronto service.
The new route reflects Etihad’s long-term commitment to Canada and its ambition to connect more travellers, businesses and communities with Abu Dhabi. It is also expected to support stronger tourism, trade and investment ties between Canada, the UAE and key markets across Etihad’s global network.
The launch further reinforces the airline’s continued growth and international expansion in markets with potential for increasing travel demand.
Etihad Airways Calgary Flight Schedule
All times are local.
| Flight | From | Departure | To | Arrival | Days | Aircraft |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EY29 | Abu Dhabi | 02:25 | Calgary | 07:00 | Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday | Boeing 787-9 |
| EY30 | Calgary | 13:00 | Abu Dhabi | 12:55 (+1 day) | Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday | Boeing 787-9 |
