ABU DHABI — Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, launched its inaugural flight to Dhaka on June 26, operating a sold-out Boeing 777 service to the Bangladeshi capital. The new route strengthens trade and cargo connectivity across South Asia and responds to sustained demand for passenger travel and freight between the UAE and Bangladesh.
Flight EY382 departed Abu Dhabi at 10 p.m. on June 26 and arrived at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka the following morning. The service operates four times a week aboard a Boeing 777, offering 28 lie-flat business class seats and 374 economy seats, along with significant belly-hold cargo capacity to support growing freight demand.
“Our first flight to Dhaka departing fully booked reflects the strong ties between the UAE and Bangladesh and the sustained demand we are seeing for both passenger travel and cargo on this route,” said Antonoaldo Neves, chief executive officer of Etihad Airways.
“The UAE is home to one of the largest Bangladeshi communities in the world, and this service provides a direct link for families with ties to both countries, while also serving as a convenient gateway for the Bangladeshi diaspora traveling via Abu Dhabi from across the GCC, North America and the United Kingdom.”
In addition to passenger traffic, the route provides additional cargo capacity for Bangladesh’s garment and textile industry, a key driver of the country’s economy. The service gives exporters improved access to markets across the Middle East, Europe and North America through Abu Dhabi, strengthening supply chain connectivity.
Passengers transiting through Abu Dhabi can also take advantage of Etihad’s stopover program, allowing them to visit the UAE capital before continuing their journeys. Visitors can explore attractions including Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi and the recently opened Zayed National Museum, as well as the city’s beaches, waterfront destinations and dining scene.
The launch of the Dhaka route further expands Etihad’s presence in South Asia, strengthening links between the region’s communities, businesses and global markets through Abu Dhabi.
