UAE-North America travel: Etihad Airways launches first ever flight to Charlotte on A350
Expansion includes new services to Kabul strengthening global network
ABU DHABI – Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has commenced scheduled operations to Charlotte, North Carolina, with its inaugural flight arriving at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) over the weekend.
The service is operated using Etihad’s state-of-the-art Airbus A350-1000, a modern long-haul aircraft renowned for its efficiency and comfort.
Charlotte becomes the latest addition to Etihad’s North American network, providing enhanced connectivity for passengers across the Southeast United States. The route links the Charlotte region and broader North Carolina communities to Etihad’s global destinations via Abu Dhabi, including key cities across India and Asia. The service also supports freight operations, bolstering trade and logistics capabilities.
Etihad expands its global network with new routes to Charlotte and Kabul.
— Etihad Airways (@etihad) March 22, 2026
On 20 March, we launched our first‑ever service to Charlotte, North Carolina. The route is operated by our state‑of‑the‑art Airbus A350, offering a next‑generation long‑haul experience with enhanced… pic.twitter.com/CbCZQyb49c
Next-generation A350
The Airbus A350-1000 features cutting-edge aerodynamics and next-generation engines, making it one of the most fuel-efficient widebody aircraft in commercial aviation today. Passengers in the Business cabin enjoy fully flat beds, direct aisle access, increased privacy, and an elevated dining experience. The Economy cabin offers 327 seats with generous legroom, personal in-flight entertainment, Bluetooth headset pairing, and complimentary Wi-Fi chat packages.
Etihad’s investment in the A350 fleet reflects a commitment to delivering modern, sustainable, and passenger-focused travel experiences on long-haul routes.
Network expansion
Alongside Charlotte, Etihad also launched services to Kabul March as part of its long-term global network strategy. These new routes strengthen connectivity between Abu Dhabi and major international markets, providing reliable travel options for both leisure and business travellers.