Etihad Airways, the United Arab Emirates’ national airline, has resumed flights to Kabul, Afghanistan, ending a five-year hiatus.
On Friday, an Etihad aircraft landed at Kabul International Airport, marking the restart of direct air service between the two countries. According to the Afghan Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, this move is significant for strengthening air connectivity, boosting economic and trade cooperation, and facilitating travel for citizens between Afghanistan and the UAE.
The airline plans to operate four weekly flights between Kabul and Abu Dhabi, utilizing Airbus A320 aircraft. Officials from Etihad highlighted that this resumption aligns with the airline’s regional expansion strategy centered around Abu Dhabi.
Etihad’s CEO emphasized Kabul as a key destination in the airline’s growth plan, noting that the flights will support trade, investment, and family ties. Operating since 2003, Etihad Airways serves over 90 destinations globally and is one of the leading carriers in the Gulf region.
Flights to Kabul were suspended in 2021 following political developments in Afghanistan. Their restoration reflects improvements in conditions and the gradual reintegration of Afghanistan into the international aviation network.
