Etihad Airways Launches Charlotte-Abu Dhabi Direct Flights Starting May 2026

Starting May 4, 2026, flights will connect Charlotte to Abu Dhabi for the first time. The new service marks Charlotte's first direct link to the Middle East, with Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners making four weekly trips.

"All the ingredients are there for us to provide service to our future customers," Etihad Airways CEO Antonoaldo Neves said per The Charlotte Observer. "We believe it's a city that deserves this and more."

The planes will depart Charlotte on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Tickets cost between $900 for basic seats and $8,000 for top-tier spots. Each flight takes 14 hours to reach its destination.

This move shows strong faith in Charlotte's market. One aircraft costs $200 million, and the 787-9 fits 300 passengers in its business and economy sections. These planes bring fresh technology to Charlotte's runways.

Charlotte's airport now ranks sixth worldwide for takeoffs and landings. Officials struck the deal with surprising speed: just seven days from start to finish.

"Charlotte has been part of our long-term network strategy," Neves said. "As we've expanded our U.S. presence, CLT consistently stood out as a key market to support both business and leisure demand to and from Abu Dhabi, and beyond"

Every ticket includes food and drinks at no extra cost. Coach offers dishes like Japanese curry chicken or fish. Those in premium seats can pick from tender beef or spiced duck.

This addition makes four international carriers at Charlotte's airport: the first new one since 2018. The airline already serves New York, Chicago, Washington, Boston, and Atlanta.

Flying back to Charlotte gets easier with U.S. Customs checks in Abu Dhabi. The X-shaped terminal keeps walks short, and guests can claim a free hotel night during stops.

Since its start in 2003, this UAE national carrier has grown fast. Last year saw 18.5 million flyers: up 32% from before.