Etihad Airways will operate its new service between Gothenburg and Abu Dhabi throughout the year after bookings exceeded expectations.
The route was initially announced in August as a seasonal operation, but Etihad upgraded it to year-round status only three weeks after sales opened, citing strong demand in both directions.
Flights will begin on 17 December 2026 and operate four times per week between Göteborg Landvetter Airport and Abu Dhabi. Etihad will use a 160-seat Airbus A321LR featuring First, Business and Economy cabins.
The service will provide western Sweden with direct access to the United Arab Emirates and connections through Etihad’s Abu Dhabi hub to destinations across the Middle East, India and Southeast Asia. It is also expected to attract visitors to Gothenburg from markets throughout the airline’s global network.
Swedavia CEO Mats Johannesson said the decision demonstrated confidence in the Swedish aviation market and would support businesses and communities across western Sweden.
Etihad Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer Arik De acknowledged that the airline had underestimated demand from Gothenburg, describing the unusually early move to year-round operations as a strong market signal.