Etihad Starts Washington DC Flights

Etihad Airways has started non-stop daily flights between Abu Dhabi and Washington DC, the first direct air link between the two capitals.

The route is served by a three-class Airbus A340-500 aircraft, with 12 first, 28 business and 200 economy seats.

The new service to Washington Dulles International Airport has been introduced to meet strong demand for government and business travel, as well as growing demand for leisure trips between and beyond the cities.

“Government and corporate customers in both markets have given us strong indication that the Abu Dhabi – Washington route can support a daily service from day one,” James Hogan, president and CEO of Etihad Airways, said.

He said forward bookings on the route are “very encouraging” in both directions.

Etihad will open a $6.8 million premium lounge this week in Terminal A at Dulles Airport for first and business class passengers – helping them relax before the 13 hour 30 minute journey to the Middle East, although that it is 90 minutes shorter than the Washington flight.

It marks Etihad’s fourth destination in the region after New York, Chicago and Toronto.