Etihad Airways celebrates its inaugural flight to Peshawar, expanding connectivity in Pakistan

UAE – Etihad Airways today celebrated the launch of its inaugural direct flight to Peshawar (PEW), further expanding its network in Pakistan and offering convenient access for travellers from Pakistan to the UAE, the GCC, and Etihad’s wider global destinations.

This new service links Abu Dhabi to Peshawar, the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, a city celebrated for its rich history, cultural heritage, and strategic role as a gateway to trade and tourism.

The route is expected to serve significant demand from more than 1.5 million Pakistanis living and working in the UAE, while also enhancing two-way travel for trade, business, and leisure purposes.

Peshawar becomes Etihad’s fourth nonstop destination in Pakistan, joining Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, which strengthens the airline’s presence in the country and offers guests more flexibility and choice across its expanding network.

Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer at Etihad Airways, remarked that the launch of Peshawar reflects the airline’s commitment to building a robust global network.

He noted that Pakistan is home to one of the largest expatriate communities in the UAE, and this new route provides greater flexibility for their travel needs.

Neves also highlighted that the service not only connects families and friends but also aims to welcome more visitors from Pakistan to discover Abu Dhabi as a vibrant international business and tourism destination.

Initially, Etihad will operate five flights per week to Peshawar, increasing to convenient daily flights effective November 20, 2025.

These flights will be operated by Etihad’s Airbus A320 aircraft, featuring 8 Business class seats and 150 Economy seats, ensuring maximum comfort and the airline’s renowned hospitality on board.

The launch of this route coincides with Etihad’s broader expansion across South Asia, including upcoming inaugural flights to destinations such as Medan (Indonesia), Phnom Penh (Cambodia), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), and Krabi (Thailand) in early October, reinforcing its growing footprint.

This innovative connectivity fosters economic ties, enhances tourism, and bolsters cultural exchange between Pakistan, the UAE, and global destinations, underscoring Etihad’s strategic focus on serving emerging markets and diaspora communities.

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