Etihad Airways has launched its first non-stop service between Abu Dhabi and Calgary, with the inaugural flight EY29 touching down at Calgary International Airport this morning to a reception hosted by Government of Alberta, airport and tourism partners.
The route will operate four times a week, flown by a Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Calgary becomes the airline’s second Canadian destination alongside its long-established Toronto service.
“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,” Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways said in a statement.
“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,” he added.
“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,” Joseph Schow, Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration further explained.
“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,” Chris Dinsdale, President and CEO, Calgary Airports 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,” Alisha Reynolds, President & CEO of Tourism Calgary added.
For passengers across Etihad’s network, the service opens a connection to Calgary’s business environment and proximity to Alberta’s national parks, including Banff and Jasper. Travellers from Western Canada gain access to Abu Dhabi and onward connections to the Gulf, India, Asia and Africa.
| Flight | From | Departure | To | Arrival | Days | Aircraft |
| EY29 | Abu Dhabi | 02:25 | Calgary | 07:00 | Tue, Thurs, Sat, Sun | B787-9 |
| EY30 | Calgary | 13:00 | Abu Dhabi | 12:55 (+1) | Tue, Thurs, Sat, Sun | B787-9 |
