Etihad Airways Launches First Direct Calgary to Abu Dhabi Flight

Etihad Airways launched its first non-stop flight service between Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, and Calgary, Canada, on October 25, 2026. The inaugural sold-out flight, EY29, utilized a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner to establish the only direct connection between Western Canada and the United Arab Emirates.

The service will operate four times per week, making Calgary the airline's second Canadian destination and its westernmost gateway. This expansion complements existing service to Toronto and six U.S. destinations as part of a broader North American growth strategy.

Alberta's Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration, Joseph Schow, and other government officials welcomed the arrival at Calgary International Airport. Schow noted that the route links two of the world's foremost energy producers and is expected to attract increased investment and tourism to the province. Tourism and airport officials characterized the launch as a significant milestone for Calgary's global connectivity, reducing the perceived distance between the two regions.