Etihad Airways celebrates 15 years services to India

The airline began operations in India in September 2004 and it has grown to become its second largest market after the UAE, carrying over 18 million passengers to and from the country.

Mumbai was the first route in the country to be served by Etihad and today the city ranks highest in terms of total passengers the airline has carried over the years, with the number exceeding 3.5 million. Owing to passenger demand on this route, Etihad introduced a fourth daily service to Mumbai last year, underscoring its commitment to offer guests greater choice and more travel options between Abu Dhabi and key destinations across its network. The cities of Delhi and Cochin rank second and third, with the airline carrying over 3.2 million and 2.3 million passengers on these routes respectively over the years. Etihad has also added a fourth daily frequency on its Delhi - Abu Dhabi route, to meet high demand on this sector.

Danny Barranger, Etihad Airways’ senior vice president global sales, said: “Etihad Airways remains committed to its largest and busiest market, India. The UAE and India have shared strong commercial, cultural and historic relations and we will continue to honour these excellent trade and tourism ties through closer partnership with our friends in the Indian travel trade. We are proud that today Etihad Airways serves more destinations in India than any other country across its network, truly supporting the growth of air travel to and from the country.”

Neerja Bhatia, Etihad Airways’ vice president, Indian Sub-continent said: “India plays a crucial role in Etihad Airways’ growth strategy, contributing significantly to the airline’s global operations and we are honoured to support demand in one of the fastest growing aviation markets in the world. Our unwavering commitment to the country over the last fifteen years has resulted in Etihad Airways becoming one of the most preferred airlines for travellers from India, and we will continue to offer guests unmatched hospitality and convenient access to destinations across the world.”