Etihad Airways celebrates sold-out inaugural flight to Tashkent, opening a new gateway to Central Asia
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, today celebrated the arrival of its inaugural flight to Tashkent, officially launching the airline's first route to Uzbekistan and creating a new connection between Abu Dhabi and one of the world's fastest-growing aviation markets.
Etihad’s New Tashkent Route
- Launch milestone: Etihad Airways celebrated its inaugural flight to Tashkent, marking the airline’s first route into Uzbekistan.
- Daily service: Operated by an Airbus A320, flights run daily between Abu Dhabi and Tashkent.
- EY830 departs Abu Dhabi at 20:35 (later 21:20 from Sept 1) and arrives in Tashkent at 02:05 (+1) / 01:50 (+1).
- EY831 departs Tashkent at 03:25 (later 03:35) and arrives in Abu Dhabi at 06:55 / 06:25.
Strategic Importance
- Gateway role: Strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a premium hub, connecting Uzbekistan to GCC, Europe, Levant, and North America.
- Codeshare expansion: Partnership with Uzbekistan Airways extends connectivity to eight domestic cities (Samarkand, Bukhara, Fergana, etc.) and selected international destinations.
- Tourism & business: Supports stronger flows of visitors and trade between Central Asia and the UAE.
Cultural & Travel Appeal
- For Uzbek travellers: Direct access to Abu Dhabi’s attractions — Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Saadiyat Island, Yas Island.
- For Etihad’s global network: Opens the door to Uzbekistan’s cultural gems — Samarkand, Bukhara, and the vibrant capital Tashkent.
Leadership Statement
Frank Meyer, Etihad’s Chief Digital Officer, emphasized Uzbekistan’s fast-growing aviation market and cultural richness, calling the new service a “gateway between Central Asia and the world.”
This route is part of Etihad’s broader network growth strategy, connecting high-potential markets to Abu Dhabi and reinforcing the UAE capital’s role as a global hub.
