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The inaugural flight EY29 from Etihad Airways touched down at Calgary International Airport on October 25, 2026, following a sold-out journey that was met with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by provincial and airport officials. This event marked the first time a direct flight has operated between any city in the Gulf region and Calgary, according to the airline. Alberta Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration Joseph Schow joined representatives from Calgary Airports and Tourism Calgary to celebrate what he called a historic moment for Western Canada.
Etihad Airways said in a statement that the new route will operate four times weekly on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, linking two major energy and innovation centres. Antonoaldo Neves, chief executive officer at Etihad Airways, said, “The launch of our Abu Dhabi–Calgary service is both a significant and historic step in Etihad’s global expansion. By creating the only nonstop link between the Middle East and Western Canada, we are opening new opportunities for trade, tourism and investment, while giving travellers direct access to two distinctive and globally important destinations.”
The Abu Dhabi-based carrier already serves Toronto, making Calgary its second Canadian gateway and the westernmost point in its North American network. Prior to the launch, travellers had to connect through other airports for journeys between the two cities, a process the new service eliminates. Alpna Matthews, Etihad’s regional general manager for the Americas, told reporters that the connection will open doors to greater opportunities in tourism, business, trade and investment.
Provincial trade data shows Alberta’s exports to the United Arab Emirates reached 414.2 million dollars in 2025, a 67.1 percent increase from the previous year. Schow stated in remarks at the event that the direct route demonstrates the demand from around the world to do business with Alberta and the growing relationship the province has built with the UAE. He pointed to the potential for collaboration and economic benefit as two of the world’s foremost energy producers.
The Boeing 787-9 used on the route features 32 business class seats and 271 economy seats, with amenities that include Wi-Fi, premium bedding in business and complimentary meals across both cabins, the carrier reported. The outbound schedule sees departure from Abu Dhabi early in the morning with arrival in Calgary in the morning on the same day, while the return leaves Calgary in the afternoon. This frequency and aircraft choice reflect Etihad’s strategy to support Abu Dhabi’s ambitions as an international hub.
Calgary Airports president and CEO Chris Dinsdale said the partnership connects Calgary as the gateway to the Canadian Rockies with Abu Dhabi, a city of rich culture and opportunity. The development comes after the route was first announced in January 2026 with an initial start date in November that was advanced to capitalize on demand. Officials indicated that daily service could be considered in the future should passenger and cargo volumes warrant an increase.
