New routes: Etihad launches direct flights from Abu Dhabi to Sumatra and Phnom Penh
Brand-new Airbus A321LR offers premium cabins and exclusive first-class services
ABU DHABI – Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates, is celebrating the launch of two new Southeast Asian routes, marking a significant expansion in its global network now covering 83 destinations.
On 2nd October, Etihad operated its inaugural flight to Medan in Sumatra, Indonesia, followed by the first flight to Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on 3 October. The new routes offer both leisure and business travellers direct access to these culturally rich regions while enhancing trade and tourism connections between the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and Southeast Asia.
Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer at Etihad Airways, said: “We’re proud to expand our network in Southeast Asia, inviting more guests across the region to explore our home with a convenient and direct route to Abu Dhabi. Both Sumatra and Phnom Penh are extraordinary destinations with natural and man-made wonders to explore.”
Sumatra flight
Etihad’s inaugural flight to Medan opens a gateway to North Sumatra, one of Indonesia’s most captivating yet lesser-known regions. Travellers can discover lush rainforests, misty highlands, and the spectacular Lake Toba, the world’s largest volcanic lake and a UNESCO Global Geopark. The region is also home to the unique Batak culture and critically endangered orangutans..
Medan itself offers a blend of colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and traditional Sumatran cuisine, creating a rich urban experience. Beyond tourism, Medan is an economic hub, making the route valuable for trade and business links between Indonesia and global markets.
Phnom Penh service
Etihad’s Phnom Penh service currently operates four weekly flights, increasing to six per week from 1 November 2025.
The Cambodian capital boasts a lively riverside promenade, dynamic dining scene, and bustling markets. The city serves as a gateway to Cambodia’s cultural landmarks, including the temples of Angkor Wat, while also highlighting an emerging arts and creative scene.
Airbus A321LR
Both new routes are operated using Etihad’s state-of-the-art Airbus A321LR. The aircraft features a three-cabin configuration, including Etihad’s first-ever narrowbody First Suites, offering private, enclosed spaces with sliding doors, fully-flat beds, and premium design touches. First Deluxe passengers enjoy additional services such as personal Concierge, Etihad Global Chauffeur, Meet and Assist, and more.
Etihad Guest Extraordinary Challenge
Both new destinations are eligible for the Etihad Guest Extraordinary Challenge, which invites members to visit five, ten, or 15 new destinations to win up to five million Etihad Guest Miles. The challenge runs until 25 May 2026 and is open to new and existing members. Members are encouraged to share their journeys on social media using #EYextraordinarymiles.
Etihad in Southeast Asia
Sumatra and Phnom Penh are part of Etihad’s rapidly growing Southeast Asian network, which will soon include Krabi, Hanoi, Chiang Mai, and Hong Kong. The airline plans to launch 30 new routes across four continents in 2025 alone, including Damascus, Palma de Mallorca, and Zanzibar.