Etihad Airways (EY), the carrier that only a few days ago added six routes under “It’s Time for Africa” scheme, will commence direct flights between Islam Karimov Tashkent International Airport (TAS) and Zayed International Airport (AUH) from August 17, 2026, marking the resumption of scheduled services between Uzbekistan and the United Arab Emirates, Trends reported via Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Transport.
The route follows high-level discussions between Uzbek authorities and Etihad leadership, aimed at strengthening bilateral air connectivity and expanding international access for passengers.
Etihad’s Tashkent Route Launch
The agreement was formalized during a meeting between Uzbekistan’s Deputy Minister of Transport Jasurbek Choriyev and Etihad’s Chief Operating Officer Majed Al Marzouqi. Both sides reviewed existing air links and identified opportunities for growth.
According to a statement cited by Trend, officials emphasized that restoring direct connectivity between the two capitals would improve mobility and economic exchange. The service will operate on the Tashkent–Abu Dhabi–Tashkent sector, re-establishing a key international corridor.
Abu Dhabi Connectivity Network
The new route will allow Uzbek travelers to access Etihad’s global network spanning more than 70 destinations across Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and North America. Abu Dhabi will serve as the primary transit hub for onward connections.
In a report published by Trend, officials noted that the flights are expected to “significantly enhance travel opportunities” for passengers by providing seamless connectivity through AUH. The move aligns with Etihad’s broader network expansion strategy following a period of restructuring.
Etihad’s Fleet Expansion Plans
As of April 2026, Etihad operates a fleet of 126 aircraft, supporting both long-haul and regional operations. The addition of Tashkent strengthens its Central Asia footprint, a region seeing growing demand for business and leisure travel.
Here’s a look at the carrier’s fleet as reported by planespotters.net:
| Aircraft Type | In Service | Parked | Total (Current) | Future | Historic | Avg. Age | Fleet Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airbus A320 | 15 | 2 | 17 | — | 12 | 14.0 Years | 29 |
| Airbus A321 | 26 | 1 | 27 | 3 | 1 | 5.4 Years | 31 |
| Airbus A350 XWB | 11 | — | 11 | 1 | — | 3.4 Years | 12 |
| Airbus A380 | 5 | 4 | 9 | — | 1 | 10.6 Years | 10 |
| Boeing 777 | 15 | — | 15 | — | 22 | 12.7 Years | 37 |
| Boeing 787 Dreamliner | 46 | 1 | 47 | — | — | 7.3 Years | 47 |
| Total | 118 | 8 | 126 | 4 | 104 | 8.3 Years | 234 |
The development also reflects Uzbekistan’s ongoing efforts to liberalize its aviation sector and attract foreign carriers. Enhanced connectivity is expected to support tourism, trade, and investment flows between the two countries.