Etihad Airways has officially resumed a limited commercial flight schedule, marking a cautious return to operations amid ongoing turmoil in the Middle East. The airline is now operating flights to and from Abu Dhabi, with the current schedule announced to run until 12 March, as it gradually restores services disrupted by recent regional conflicts.
Focus on Affected Passengers and Key Destinations
The initial phase of Etihad's resumption prioritises passengers whose journeys have been severely impacted by the chaos unfolding across the Middle East. Guests with existing bookings will be accommodated on these flights as promptly as possible, and new flight tickets are also available for purchase. In a significant move to assist travellers, those holding Etihad tickets issued on or before 28 February 2026, with original travel dates up to 21 March 2026, are eligible for free rebooking onto Etihad-operated flights until 15 May 2026.
Strict Safety Protocols and Operational Guidelines
Etihad Airways has emphasised that this decision follows extensive safety and security assessments. The airline will continue to monitor the situation closely, operating flights only when all stringent safety criteria are met. All services remain subject to operational approvals and may be adjusted based on regional airspace conditions, with not all destinations operating on a daily basis.
Passengers and the general public are strongly advised not to travel to Abu Dhabi International Airport unless they have received direct communication from Etihad or hold a confirmed booking on one of the newly scheduled flights. The airline has outlined a clear protocol for affected guests, who will receive direct notifications confirming their flight status and detailing available options.
Current Flight Schedule and Destination List
Until 19 March, Etihad will operate flights to a select range of key destinations, including Addis Ababa, Amsterdam, Athens, Cairo, Chicago, London Heathrow, Madrid, New York JFK, and Paris. The latest flight schedule can be accessed through the airline's official channels, and travellers are encouraged to verify their flight status at etihad.com before proceeding to the airport.
All other scheduled commercial services to and from Abu Dhabi remain suspended for the time being, though Etihad has indicated that additional destinations may be introduced in the coming days as the situation evolves.
Broader Impact on Middle East Air Travel
The resumption of Etihad's limited operations occurs against a backdrop of widespread travel disruptions across the Middle East. Recent events, including an Iranian strike and drone campaign in Abu Dhabi earlier this month, have led to significant flight cancellations and restrictions. According to FlightAware data, there were 600 more flight cancellations today across major Gulf air travel hubs, comprising 450 arrivals and departures from Doha, 100 from Dubai, and 46 from Abu Dhabi.
Other major carriers are also grappling with the fallout. Virgin Atlantic has scrapped services to and from Dubai, with one flight from London Heathrow to the United Arab Emirates forced to return, resulting in what has been termed a 'flight to nowhere'. Emirates, meanwhile, is operating a reduced schedule following the partial reopening of regional airspace, advising customers to check flight schedules and avoid airports without confirmed bookings.
Qatar Airways has temporarily suspended scheduled operations due to the closure of Qatari airspace, with plans to resume once authorities announce a safe full reopening. The airline will operate a limited flight schedule in the coming days under temporary authorisation to support affected passengers.
Repatriation Efforts and Refund Options
Britons have begun arriving back in the UK on repatriation flights from the Middle East, highlighting the ongoing efforts to assist stranded travellers. For those with Etihad flights booked until 21 March, the airline is offering the option to request a refund, providing some financial relief amid the uncertainty.
As the situation remains fluid, Etihad urges guests to ensure their contact details are up to date and to monitor their email for further updates. The airline's cautious approach underscores the complex challenges facing air travel in the region, with safety and security remaining paramount concerns.
