Etihad Airways has announced a landmark expansion of its global network with the launch of the first-ever nonstop flights between the United Arab Emirates and Calgary. Launching on 3 November 2026, the new Abu Dhabi–Calgary service represents a major milestone for Etihad and a significant step forward in Abu Dhabi’s long-term vision to accelerate international trade, tourism and investment.
Connecting Two Global Powerhouses
The new route directly links two globally recognised centres of energy, innovation and culture, strengthening economic ties and opening new opportunities for business and leisure travellers alike.
Abu Dhabi’s fast-growing economy, world-class cultural institutions and expanding innovation ecosystem will now connect seamlessly with Calgary’s role as a hub for energy, advanced manufacturing, and technological innovation. The nonstop service establishes a direct corridor for corporate travel, trade engagement, and cross-sector collaboration between the two regions.
Beyond business, the route brings together two highly distinctive leisure destinations.
Canadian travellers gain direct access to Abu Dhabi’s iconic cultural landmarks, luxury coastal resorts, desert experiences and year-round sunshine, while travellers from the UAE and across Etihad’s global network can explore Calgary’s vibrant urban culture and its position as the gateway to Alberta and the Canadian Rockies—home to some of North America’s most breathtaking natural landscapes.
Strategic Growth for Etihad
Calgary becomes Etihad’s latest long-haul destination, following recent route announcements including Luxembourg and Palma. Each new addition reflects the airline’s strategy of opening markets with strong economic, trade and tourism relevance, while broadening travel options for passengers across its expanding international network.
Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, described the launch as a defining moment for the airline:
”The launch of our Abu Dhabi–Calgary service is both a significant and historic step in Etihad’s global expansion. By creating the only nonstop link between the Middle East and Western Canada, we are opening new opportunities for trade, tourism and investment, while giving travellers direct access to two distinctive and globally important destinations”.
”For Canadian travellers, it opens direct access to Abu Dhabi’s rich culture and year-round experiences, while guests from the UAE and across our network gain seamless access to Calgary and the natural beauty of Western Canada. It is a route designed to stimulate two-way tourism and deepen ties between our regions.”
Chris Dinsdale, President and CEO of Calgary Airports, welcomed the partnership:
”Calgary Airports is proud to partner with Etihad Airways to link two great cities. This direct route is key to connecting our region’s leisure and business travellers to important locations in the Middle East, as well as a wealth of linked destinations in Africa, Asia and around the world.”
Premium Experience on One of Etihad’s Longest Routes
The route will be operated by Etihad’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, featuring the airline’s latest award-winning Business and Economy cabins. Designed for long-haul comfort, the aircraft delivers Etihad’s signature inflight service, hospitality and onboard experience on one of the longest routes in its network.
The Calgary service further reinforces Etihad’s growing presence in North America, complementing existing flights to Toronto, New York and Chicago, alongside the upcoming Charlotte service launching in March.
Calgary Flight schedule from 3 November 2026 – all times local:
| Flight | Origin | Departure Time | Destination | Arrival Time | Frequency | Aircraft |
| EY 29 | Abu Dhabi | 08.45 | Calgary | 12:20 | Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun | 787-9 |
| EY 30 | Calgary | 18:05 | Abu Dhabi | 19:00 | Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun | 787-9 |
Will you be on Etihad’s first nonstop flight to Calgary? Let us know in the comments below!
