Etihad Airways returns to Beijing

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Emirates national carrier Etihad Airways has resumed passenger flights between Abu Dhabi and Beijing.

Etihad Airways’ inaugural flight EY888 landed in Beijing at 05:25 am local time today, becoming the first international direct regular flight back to Beijing authorized by the Joint Prevention and Control Mechanism of the State Council in response to the new crown pneumonia epidemic. -19.

The flight is the first non-stop passenger flight from Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, to Beijing, the capital of the People’s Republic of China, since March 23, 2020. The flight was a UAE diplomat and an employee of a Chinese company investing in the UAE. , business travelers and students.

Tony Douglas, Group Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Airways Group, “Today is an important moment in the history of Etihad Airways, with the resumption of passenger flights to Beijing for the first time in more than 800 days. The direct flight between Abu Dhabi and Beijing will undoubtedly help deepen cooperation between the two countries in various fields. , to strengthen the bond between the two peoples.

“With the rapid easing of global travel restrictions, Etihad is well-positioned to further increase its presence in China and meet the growing demand from travellers in both regions to support the recovery of global economic and social activity,” Douglas added.

Ahmed Al Qubaisi, Senior Vice President, Government International and Communications, Etihad Airways Groupcommented: “Today’s Etihad Airways flight is a testament to the successful comprehensive strategic partnership between the two capitals and demonstrates the shared determination of both governments to build on this. Etihad is very grateful to be part of this moment and contribute to the growing relationship between the UAE and China.

“Etihad Airways continues to deliver on its commitment to building a resilient and prosperous air bridge between the UAE and China and beyond. This maintains the flow of passengers and cargo and supports economic and political exchanges between the two countries.”

After the inaugural flight, weekly scheduled service will begin on July 6 on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner with business and economy class.

Schedule effective from July 6: