Flight Expansion Announcement
Etihad Airways is set to enhance its global reach by launching a new route connecting Abu Dhabi with Peshawar, Pakistan, starting on 29 September 2025. Initial operations will involve five flights each week, ramping up to daily service by 22 November.
Connecting Two Vital Hubs
This new route will link Zayed International Airport (AUH) with Bacha Khan International Airport (PEW) in Peshawar. It’s an exciting development for travelers, offering an avenue for seamless connections not just within Pakistan, but also to various destinations across Etihad’s expanding network. Peshawar, a city with rich historical significance and cultural depth, plays a crucial role as a hub for both domestic and international travelers.
The Importance of Peshawar Airport
Peshawar’s airport has been a key player in facilitating air travel in the region. It joins Etihad’s list of direct routes to Pakistan, complementing existing connections to major cities like Karachi, Islamabad, and Lahore. With this expansion, Etihad aims to bolster travel options for both business and leisure travelers visiting this vibrant area.
Aircraft and Service Features
The airline plans to operate the Peshawar route using its modern Airbus A320 family of aircraft, featuring a comfortable configuration with eight seats in Business Class and 150 seats in Economy Class. This setup ensures passengers receive Etihad’s renowned award-winning service onboard, making for a pleasant flying experience. The initial schedule includes flights five times a week, with plans for daily operations commencing from late November 2025.
Statements from Etihad Leadership
Etihad Airways’ Chief Executive Officer, Antonoaldo Neves, voiced excitement about this development, emphasizing the airline’s commitment to strengthening connectivity options between Pakistan and key regions including the Gulf, Africa, Europe, and North America. He stated, “This expansion highlights our dedication to enhancing travel opportunities for passengers. In conjunction with the new Peshawar service, we will also increase frequencies to Karachi to 17 flights per week starting 1 October.”
Strategic Expansion Trends
The addition of Peshawar is part of a broader strategy by Etihad to expand its global network. Following the introduction of new routes to destinations like Prague, Warsaw, and Atlanta, this initiative marks the airline’s sixteenth new destination in 2025. Furthermore, along with newly announced flights, there will be increased frequency to key European cities such as Paris, Milan, and Madrid.
The Abu Dhabi Stopover Program
The expansion goes hand in hand with Etihad’s Abu Dhabi Stopover program. This initiative offers travelers the chance to experience the wonders of Abu Dhabi by providing complimentary stays at premium hotels during layovers. This initiative can greatly enhance the travel experience for passengers flying between these regions and add an appealing layer to travel itineraries.
Flight Schedules
As the new route approaches its debut, here’s a look at the flight schedule for operations starting from 29 September 2025:
| Flight No. | Departure | Departure Time | Destination | Arrival Time | Frequency | Aircraft Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EY 276 | Abu Dhabi | 02:45 | Peshawar | 06:55 | Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun | A320 / 32T |
| EY 277 | Peshawar | 08:50 | Abu Dhabi | 11:15 | Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun | A320 / 32T |
As of 22 November, the daily schedule will be as follows:
| Flight No. | Departure | Departure Time | Destination | Arrival Time | Frequency | Aircraft Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EY 276 | Abu Dhabi | 02:45 | Peshawar | 06:55 | Daily | A320 / 32T |
| EY 277 | Peshawar | 08:50 | Abu Dhabi | 11:15 | Daily | A320 / 32T |
Implications for Turkish Aviation and Istanbul Airport
The announcement of Etihad’s new route to Peshawar not only showcases the airline’s expanding reach but also highlights the interconnected nature of global travel. Istanbul’s strategic location as a hub between Europe and Asia positions Istanbul Airport as a crucial player in international airline operations. With increased flight options, travel to and from this vibrant city is set to multiply, enhancing tourism flows and benefiting local economies.
Why This Development Matters
This flight expansion speaks volumes about the evolving landscape of international travel. As global connectivity improves, cities like Istanbul stand to gain significantly. Travelers are on the lookout for efficient connectivity that allows them to explore diverse travel experiences. By adding destinations like Peshawar, Etihad is not just making travel easier but strengthening ties between regions and cultures.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Abu Dhabi-Peshawar route by Etihad Airways is a testament to the growing demand for air travel connectivity. With the airline’s commitment to enhancing service offerings and expanding reach, this development will undoubtedly attract more travelers to explore not only Pakistan but also connecting through Istanbul. As the travel industry continues to evolve, Istanbul Airport remains a key gateway worth keeping an eye on, with exciting prospects on the horizon.
In summary, the launch of these flights is a significant step in Turkish aviation and further cements Istanbul’s position in the global airline industry. With Etihad reinforcing its operations, travelers can expect an array of enhanced flight options between Turkey and beyond, ensuring Istanbul remains an indispensable stop on the world travel map.