Etihad to launch nonstop Charlotte–Abu Dhabi flights in May 2026
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has announced a new nonstop service connecting Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) in North Carolina to Zayed International Airport (AUH) in Abu Dhabi.
This new route, set to commence on May 4, 2026, marks the first direct connection between Charlotte and the Middle East, significantly enhancing travel options for passengers in the southeastern United States.
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Flight Details and Schedule
The new service will operate four times a week—on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays—using Etihad’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, which accommodates 303 passengers across Business and Economy classes.
Flight Schedule:
EY15: Departs Abu Dhabi at 3:15 AM, arrives in Charlotte at 10:15 AM.
EY16: Departs Charlotte at 2:40 PM, arrives in Abu Dhabi at 12:25 PM the following day.
The approximately 15-hour flight will be the longest scheduled route from Charlotte, providing a direct link to the Middle East and beyond.
Aircraft and Onboard Amenities
Etihad’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner offers a comfortable and modern travel experience. Passengers can expect amenities such as in-flight entertainment systems, Wi-Fi connectivity, power outlets, and USB charging ports.
Business Class Features:
Lie-flat seats for enhanced comfort.
Access to exclusive lounges.
Chauffeur service to and from Zayed International Airport for eligible passengers.
Strategic Expansion into the U.S. Market
Charlotte will become Etihad’s sixth destination in the United States, joining New York (JFK), Chicago (ORD), Washington, D.C. (IAD), Boston (BOS), and Atlanta (ATL, launching July 2025).
This expansion reflects Etihad’s commitment to growing its presence in the U.S. market and providing more direct connections between the U.S. and the Middle East.
Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways, stated, “Charlotte represents a strategic addition to our U.S. network, unlocking direct access to one of the country’s most dynamic and fast-growing regions.”
