The United Arab Emirates is significantly enhancing its global aviation presence as Etihad Airways announces an expansion of its transatlantic network. By May 2026, the national carrier will operate fifty-three weekly flights to the United States and Canada, increasing from the current forty-six weekly flights scheduled for July 2025. This strategic initiative aims to improve international air connectivity through Abu Dhabi, with more flights to major cities such as New York, Chicago, Boston, and Washington, in addition to a new route to Charlotte.

Etihad Airways plans to strengthen its footprint in North America with this substantial increase in flight services. The airline’s growth reflects a broader strategy to rebuild its long-haul network in a sustainable manner. Instead of reverting to a previously expansive but unbalanced growth strategy, Etihad is now adopting a selective, market-driven approach that emphasizes long-term performance.

In recent years, Etihad has refined its international operations by focusing on optimizing resources. The North American market, which was once served by a broader array of cities, will now concentrate on high-performing routes. This upcoming expansion aims to restore capacity while prioritizing routes that demonstrate strong demand and profitability.

The new flight schedule for May 2026 illustrates a blend of continuity and growth, with several destinations experiencing frequency increases and the addition of a new city to the network. This structure will provide Etihad with seven to eight flights daily to North America, ensuring wide coverage with minimal overlap and robust hub connectivity.

To support this transatlantic network, Etihad relies on some of the most efficient widebody aircraft available, including the Airbus A350-1000 and Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. These aircraft were selected for their exceptional range, fuel efficiency, and passenger comfort. Toronto remains a key destination served by the Airbus A380, allowing for a premium onboard experience while accommodating the city’s increasing international traffic.

A significant highlight of the airline’s expansion is the introduction of service to Charlotte, North Carolina, which will begin with four weekly flights in May 2026. Charlotte has emerged as an important financial and logistics hub, providing extensive connectivity through its domestic airport infrastructure. This new route not only opens access to underserved markets in the southeastern U.S. but also creates opportunities for new one-stop international itineraries for leisure and business travelers.

Some previous destinations such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Dallas will not be included in the new schedule. This decision underscores Etihad’s commitment to prioritizing operational sustainability over aggressive expansion. By focusing on fewer destinations that promise stronger commercial performance, the airline aims to mitigate risks related to low passenger loads and seasonal demand fluctuations.

This careful approach marks a shift from previous practices and indicates a new phase of disciplined growth, informed by data, route profitability, and customer preferences. The expanded flight schedule further solidifies Abu Dhabi as a central hub for east-west travel, enhancing Etihad’s capability to connect passengers to various destinations across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa through convenient transit at its home airport.

Etihad’s plans to operate fifty-three flights per week to North America by May 2026 represent a strategic return to long-haul growth with a more focused perspective. Through increased flight frequencies, modernized fleet operations, and thoughtful route selection, the airline is positioning itself for a resilient and efficient future, prioritizing reliable access and premium travel experiences across the Atlantic.