DALLAS — Etihad Airways (EY) is launching nonstop service between Abu Dhabi and Charlotte starting May 4, 2026. 

The new route, the first-ever nonstop flight from the Gulf region to the city, will operate on Etihad’s flagship Boeing 787 Dreamliner four times weekly, connecting North Carolina’s largest city to the airline’s expanding global network. 

Passengers will enjoy onward connections across the Middle East, the Indian Subcontinent, and Asia. They will also benefit from U.S. Customs Preclearance in Abu Dhabi, which allows them to arrive in Charlotte as domestic travelers for seamless entry.

This expansion makes Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) EY’s sixth U.S. destination, joining New York, Chicago, Washington, Boston, and the upcoming Atlanta route, which launches on July 2.

Comments from Etihad CEO

“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,” said Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Airways.

 “We’re excited to be the first airline from our region to serve this market, and we look forward to connecting more travellers to Abu Dhabi and beyond.”

The news follows EY placing an order for 28 wide-body aircraft from Boeing, a deal valued at US$14.5 billion. 

The order includes a mix of Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 777X jets, all of which will be fitted with GE engines and supported by a services package. This latest deal brings Etihad’s total Boeing orders to 81 aircraft.

The new aircraft are expected to join EY’s fleet starting in 2028.