Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates, has commenced 2024 with the launch of two new daily flight services from Abu Dhabi to Kozhikode (CCJ) and Thiruvananthapuram (TRV) in India’s Kerala region, starting on New Year’s Day.
These non-stop flights to each destination increase the airline’s presence in India, bringing the total number of Indian cities served by Etihad to ten. This expansion is a part of the airline’s effort to facilitate easier access to its global network for travelers from the Subcontinent.
Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad, commented on the development, stating: “We have established a fantastic group of non-stop routes between India and Abu Dhabi, providing customers with easier access to our growing network without transiting through one of the main Indian hub airports. Seamless and practical connections at Abu Dhabi ensure that our guests can easily access destinations across the GCC, Europe – including our four daily services to London – and North America. Moreover, they have the opportunity to enjoy a fantastic stopover in Abu Dhabi as an integral part of their journey.”
Boosting Tourism and Business Travel in Kerala with New Etihad Flights
The new services are expected to enhance travel convenience to Kerala, known for its scenic landscapes and beaches, thereby potentially increasing tourism in the region. The routes also cater to business professionals traveling to and from the area’s expanding business centers.
In 2023, Etihad reintroduced flights to Kolkata, connecting Eastern India with global destinations. The airline has also augmented its flight frequencies to Mumbai and Delhi, its most frequented routes, from two to four flights daily.
Etihad's 2024 Vision: Expanding Global Reach with New Destinations
For the year 2024, Etihad has announced new flights to Boston, USA commencing on 31 March, to Nairobi, Kenya on 01 May, and a summer schedule featuring a non-stop service to Nice, France, and direct flights to the Greek islands of Mykonos and Santorini.