Luxembourg, October 21st 2026, Etihad Airways (*) opens a New Chapter in Luxembourg.
Etihad Airways has launched the only nonstop service between Luxembourg and Abu Dhabi, becoming the first Middle Eastern airline to serve the Grand Duchy. Initially, the route was planned to operate three times weekly with the (very recent) Airbus A321LR, ‘The Xtra Long-Range route opener’ (note : Etihad operates currently 12 A321LR), but with the following strong booking demand since January 2026, it has (already) been expanded to four times weekly.
In typical autumn weather, full Etihad flight EY51 landed ahead of schedule early in the morning at Luxembourg Findel Airport (ELLX).
In a cheerful mood, it is with great pride that the Airport authorities and Etihad Management welcome the grand opening of this new direct connection to Abu Dhabi Airport (OMAA).
The arrival didn’t go unnoticed as the usual Fire Department greeted the plane with a water salute.
Antonoaldo Neves, Etihad Airways Chief Executive Officer, said: “2026 has been a year of strong network growth for Etihad, and Luxembourg is a special addition. We are proud to serve the Grand Duchy with our full three-cabin experience from the very first flight, and we look forward to welcoming guests from Luxembourg and the wider region on board, whether they are travelling to Abu Dhabi or onward across our network.”
Following the aircraft’s arrival and a warm welcome at the gate, guests gathered for a formal inauguration ceremony celebrating the new connection. Traditional Luxembourgish dancing brought a lively local touch to the occasion, before official representatives marked the milestone with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting. The event continued with an exchange of gifts and commemorative photographs, capturing a memorable moment for both Etihad Airways and Luxembourg.
Alexander Flassak, CEO of lux-Airport, said: “We are delighted to welcome Etihad Airways as the first airline from the Middle East to serve Luxembourg Airport. Our passengers come from across the Grand Duchy and the Greater region, from Belgium, France and Germany, and this new service gives them a nonstop route to Abu Dhabi, with easy onward travel to Asia and beyond.”
Quite atypical for a narrow body aircraft, guests flying between Luxembourg and Abu Dhabi on the Etihad A321LR can choose from two First Suites, 14 seats in Business and 144 in Economy. The First Suites and Business seats turn into fully flat beds with direct aisle access, and Economy has 4K touchscreens with hundreds of hours of films, television and music. High-speed Wi-Fi is available in all cabins. A321LR: Luxury Refined : “Take a 3D Tour”.
For travellers from Luxembourg and neighboring Belgium, France and Germany, Etihad’s new service offers a direct gateway to Abu Dhabi.
Beyond its more than decent weather, Abu Dhabi has plenty to offer, from the architectural splendour of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Abu Dhabi Guggenheim, the high-speed thrills of Yas Marina Circuit, home of the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix to the Saadiyat Beach or the YAS island. Add world-class vibrant culinary scene and the UAE capital makes for a destination well worth exploring for the whole family.
For travellers from the Middle East, Luxembourg offers a charming gateway to Europe, with its historic old town, fairytale castles, lush valleys and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Beyond the Grand Duchy, the wider European region beckons with world-famous cities, cultural landmarks, scenic countryside and diverse culinary experiences. As interest in European travel continues to grow among visitors from the Gulf, Luxembourg’s central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring neighbouring France, Germany and Belgium, as well as destinations further afield.
During the day, Etihad showcased their 2027 version of First and Business class at the upscale, lifestyle-oriented commercial destination “GRIDx” located in Wickrange. Throughout the day, the grand public was able to see up close the cabin mockup and enjoy the Etihad hospitality with thea and dates.
(*) Etihad, The national airline of the UAE, was formed in 2003 and quickly went on to become one of the world’s leading airlines. From its home in Abu Dhabi, Etihad flies to passenger and cargo destinations in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America. Together with Etihad’s codeshare partners, Etihad’s network offers access to hundreds of international destinations. In recent years, Etihad has received numerous awards for its superior service and products, cargo offering, loyalty programme and more.
Author: Martin Gillet