Etihad Airways celebrates sold-out inaugural flight to Tashkent, opening a new gateway to Central Asia

Etihad Airways marked a significant expansion of its network today with the successful, sold-out inaugural flight to Tashkent, Uzbekistan. This new route establishes the airline's first connection to Uzbekistan, linking Abu Dhabi with one of the world's most rapidly expanding aviation markets and creating a new entry point to Central Asia.

The newly introduced daily non-stop service enhances Abu Dhabi's standing as a premier hub, facilitating connections between Uzbekistan and the UAE, the broader region, and Etihad's growing international network. Passengers from Uzbekistan can now easily access major destinations across the GCC, Europe, Levant, and North America via Abu Dhabi, thereby strengthening the links between Central Asia and global centers of commerce, culture, and innovation.

Complementing this launch is Etihad's recent codeshare agreement with Uzbekistan Airways. This partnership allows travelers to journey beyond Tashkent to eight additional Uzbek destinations—Andijan, Bukhara, Fergana, Namangan, Nukus, Samarkand, Termez, and Urgench—as well as select international locations within the Uzbekistan Airways network.

The new service brings Abu Dhabi closer to Uzbek travelers, offering direct access to a leading regional destination known for its culture, leisure, and business opportunities. Abu Dhabi presents a unique blend of Emirati hospitality, world-class resorts, luxury experiences, and year-round attractions, from the architectural splendor of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the cultural richness of Saadiyat Island to the entertainment options on Yas Island, drawing visitors globally.

For passengers across Etihad's network, the new route unlocks access to one of Central Asia's most captivating destinations. Uzbekistan, with its architectural marvels in Samarkand and Bukhara and the vibrant energy of Tashkent, offers a distinctive fusion of history, culture, and modern development that is increasingly attracting international visitors.

During the launch event, Frank Meyer, Chief Digital Officer of Etihad Airways, commented: "Today’s inaugural flight to Tashkent is a proud moment for Etihad and an important milestone in our continued network expansion. Uzbekistan is one of Central Asia’s most dynamic and fast-growing markets, with a rich cultural heritage, strong tourism appeal and growing economic significance."

Meyer added, "By launching a daily, non-stop service between Abu Dhabi and Tashkent, we are opening a new gateway between Central Asia and the world. Through Abu Dhabi, travellers can seamlessly connect to destinations across Etihad’s expanding global network, supported by the premium service and hospitality that Etihad is renowned for.”

This new service is designed to address the increasing demand for travel between Uzbekistan, the UAE, and key international markets. It aims to boost tourism, enhance business connectivity, and improve access to global opportunities for travelers in both directions.

The introduction of the Tashkent route aligns with Etihad's ongoing network growth strategy, which focuses on connecting high-potential markets to Abu Dhabi while reinforcing the UAE capital's role as a global gateway linking East and West. As Etihad expands its presence in Central Asia, the airline remains committed to fostering meaningful connectivity that benefits travelers, businesses, and communities alike.

Tashkent Flight Schedule (August 9 - September 1)

Tashkent Flight Schedule (From September 1)