News Notes
Beginning May 4, 2026, Etihad will launch four weekly nonstop flights between Charlotte and Abu Dhabi Airport (AUH), marking the airline’s first direct service from North Carolina and expanding Charlotte Douglas International Airport’s (CLT) connectivity to the vibrant hub for business, culture and tourism in the Middle East. The route provides Charlotte passengers with one-stop access to destinations across the Middle East, Indian Subcontinent, and Asia.
Flights will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.
“Etihad’s arrival is a milestone for CLT as we continue expanding our global reach,” said Haley Gentry, CEO of Charlotte Douglas International Airport. “This new route opens the door to the Middle East and beyond, providing our passengers with greater access to international destinations and strengthening Charlotte’s role as a key gateway for global travel.”
“This new service creates a vital connection between Charlotte and Abu Dhabi, linking two important economic hubs,” said His Excellency Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of Etihad Airways. “We’re opening direct channels for business, investment, and tourism that align with Abu Dhabi’s vision for a diversified global economy. Charlotte businesses gain efficient access to the UAE and beyond, while Abu Dhabi strengthens its connections to the American Southeast. Travelers benefit from U.S. Customs Preclearance in Abu Dhabi and gain efficient one-stop access to and from more than 40 destinations across the Indian Subcontinent, GCC, Africa, and Southeast Asia. We’re proud to partner with Charlotte Douglas International Airport to deliver this strategic route that will benefit travelers and businesses in both regions.”
“The addition of a direct flight to Abu Dhabi reinforces Charlotte as a world-class city,” Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles said. “These new, nonstop flights will be sure to welcome both increased tourism and new business to our region. We are honored to continue enhancing global access for our region’s residents while creating connections for new visitors to enjoy Charlotte’s amenities and entertainment.”
Tickets for the Charlotte – Abu Dhabi route are on sale now at etihad.com. Etihad is the first international airline to launch service at CLT since 2018, when Volaris began nonstop flights to Guadalajara, Mexico.
