Etihad Airways is celebrating 20 years of operations to France, marking two decades since it launched its inaugural Abu Dhabi-Paris service in June 2006. Etihad has grown significantly from operating six weekly flights with a fleet of 17 aircraft to serving 118 destinations worldwide with 124 aircraft. The milestone reflects Etihad’s continued expansion and strengthening presence across Europe.
When the airline entered the French market in 2006, it was less than three years old and served about 34 destinations. However, its growth over the past two decades has transformed its operations, with up to three daily flights now connecting Abu Dhabi and Paris. In addition, seasonal summer services to Nice have expanded Etihad’s footprint in France.
The anniversary comes as the airline enters another phase of rapid growth. Etihad is operating above last year’s capacity while adding new European routes, increasing flight frequencies and strengthening codeshare partnerships. These developments are designed to improve connectivity for passengers travelling between France, Abu Dhabi and destinations across the airline’s global network.
The carrier also has ambitious long-term expansion plans. It intends to increase its fleet to around 250 aircraft and double the size of the airline over the coming years. Therefore, French travellers can expect greater destination choices and enhanced travel options as the airline continues investing in its future.
Etihad strengthens Abu Dhabi as a global destination
Abu Dhabi remains at the centre of Etihad’s network strategy. The UAE capital continues attracting more French visitors with its combination of Emirati heritage, modern attractions and world-class tourism offerings. Visitors can experience landmarks including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Yas Island’s entertainment attractions and the beaches of the Arabian Gulf.
Meanwhile, eligible international passengers travelling to Abu Dhabi with Etihad now receive complimentary medical travel insurance for up to 15 days in the UAE. The offer, available between July and December 2026 in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, also complements the airline’s Abu Dhabi Stopover programme, allowing eligible travellers to enjoy up to two complimentary hotel nights.
Beyond Abu Dhabi, Etihad continues connecting French passengers to popular leisure destinations including Bali, Phuket, the Maldives, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and the Seychelles. Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean remain among the airline’s strongest-performing leisure markets as travel demand continues to increase.
Commenting on the milestone, Etihad Airways Chief Executive Officer, Antonoaldo Neves, said: “Twenty years of flying to France is a milestone we are proud of, and at its heart are the travellers who have chosen Etihad over two decades. More and more of them are discovering Abu Dhabi for themselves, alongside the wider world our network opens up, and it is a privilege to keep welcoming them on board.”
Flights between Paris and Abu Dhabi are now available for booking through the airline as Etihad continues expanding its global network and reinforcing its position as one of the fastest-growing international carriers.
