Etihad Airways is set to launch a groundbreaking new route connecting Abu Dhabi to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) starting May 4, 2026. This direct service marks the first-ever nonstop flight from the Middle East to Charlotte and will be the longest scheduled route from CLT, with an approximate flight time of 15 hours .
Expanding Horizons: Etihad’s U.S. Network Grows
Charlotte becomes Etihad’s sixth U.S. destination, joining New York, Chicago, Washington, Boston, and the upcoming Atlanta route launching July 2, 2025 . The new service will operate four times weekly—on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays—using Etihad’s 303-seat Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, featuring both Business and Economy cabins .
A Strategic Move for Charlotte and the Southeast
This addition positions Charlotte as a key international gateway, enhancing connectivity for both business and leisure travelers. Passengers will benefit from seamless connections to over 40 destinations across the Middle East, Indian Subcontinent, and Asia via Etihad’s hub in Abu Dhabi . Moreover, travelers can take advantage of U.S. Customs Preclearance at Zayed International Airport, allowing them to arrive in Charlotte as domestic passengers .
Ticketing and Travel Information
Tickets for the Charlotte–Abu Dhabi route are now available for purchase on Etihad’s official website, with fares starting at approximately $2,140 .
This new route not only signifies a milestone for Etihad Airways but also marks a significant development for Charlotte Douglas International Airport, expanding its global reach and offering travelers unprecedented access to the Middle East and beyond.
