Major Expansion: Etihad Adds Five New Routes to China Network

Etihad Airways has unveiled a major expansion of its network in mainland China, adding five new destinations and significantly increasing capacity on one of its most important long-haul markets.

Shanghai. Photo: Shutterstock

The airline will launch new routes from Abu Dhabi to Shanghai Pudong, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Hangzhou and Shenzhen. With these additions, Etihad will operate a total of 35 weekly flights to six cities in mainland China, including its existing daily service to Beijing Daxing.

Shenzhen. Photo: Shutterstock

All routes will be served by Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, offering a consistent widebody experience with both Business and Economy cabins.

-AUH – PVG (Shanghai Pudong): 7 weekly flights, starting 1 October 2026

-AUH – CAN (Guangzhou): 7 weekly flights, starting 4 March 2027

-AUH – HGH (Hangzhou): 5 weekly flights, starting 4 March 2027

-AUH – SZX (Shenzhen): 5 weekly flights, starting 7 March 2027

-AUH – TFU (Chengdu): 4 weekly flights, starting 5 March 2027

The move reflects the growing importance of the UAE–China corridor, as demand continues to rise across business, tourism and cargo sectors. By expanding its footprint, Etihad is positioning Abu Dhabi as a key gateway linking China with markets across the Middle East, Europe, Africa and North America.

The airline is also strengthening partnerships to support the expansion. All new routes will be part of its joint venture with China Eastern Airlines, improving connectivity between the two countries. In addition, Etihad’s cargo cooperation with SF Airlines will enhance freight capacity across major trade routes.

Etihad Chairman Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa: "The ties between the UAE and China continue to flourish, with today’s announcement reflecting the enduring strength and growing promise of our cooperation. The expanded network, made possible by our long-standing partnership with China Eastern, connects unique tourism destinations with burgeoning trading hubs, delivering shared and lasting economic prosperity and value to our people.”

CEO Antonoaldo Neves: "By adding five new destinations and increasing frequencies, we are strengthening connectivity across one of the world’s most important economic corridors. This will support growing demand for travel and trade, while creating new opportunities for cargo, business and tourism."

The new destinations cover some of China’s most important economic regions, from Shanghai’s financial hub to Shenzhen’s technology sector and Chengdu’s rapidly growing innovation scene.

The first new route to Shanghai is scheduled to launch in October 2026, with additional destinations to follow in early 2027.