Etihad launches sold-out inaugural Airbus A320 flight to Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Etihad Airways has launched its first-ever route to Uzbekistan, with the airline celebrating a sold-out inaugural flight to Tashkent that opens a new gateway between Abu Dhabi and Central Asia.

The UAE’s national carrier is now operating a daily nonstop service between Zayed International Airport (AUH) in Abu Dhabi and Tashkent International Airport (TAS), connecting Uzbekistan directly to Etihad’s broader global network.

Flight schedule

From August 9 to September 1, 2026, flight EY830 departs Abu Dhabi at 20:35 local time and arrives in Tashkent at 02:05 local time the following day, while the return flight, EY831, departing Tashkent at 03:25 local time and arriving in Abu Dhabi at 06:55 local time. 

Both flights operate daily using an Airbus A320.

Starting September 1, 2026,  the schedule will shift slightly: EY830 will depart Abu Dhabi at 21:20  local time and arrive in Tashkent at 01:50 local time the next day, while EY831 will depart Tashkent at 03:35 local time and arrive in Abu Dhabi at 06:25 local time, continuing on a daily basis with the same aircraft type.

Strengthening ties between the UAE and Uzbekistan

Etihad said the new route reinforces Abu Dhabi’s role as a global gateway, giving travelers from Uzbekistan seamless access to major hubs across several regions through a single connection point. 

Tashkent, we’ve arrived Etihad has launched its new daily non-stop service between Abu Dhabi and Tashkent, marking our first route to Uzbekistan and opening a new gateway to Central Asia.Through our codeshare with Uzbekistan Airways, guests can also connect beyond…— Etihad Airways (@etihad) August 10, 2026 The launch also builds on the airline’s recently introduced codeshare agreement with Uzbekistan Airways, which extends connectivity beyond Tashkent to eight additional cities in the country: Andijan, Bukhara, Fergana, Namangan, Nukus, Samarkand, Termez, and Urgench, along with select international destinations on the Uzbekistan Airways network.

For travelers heading into Abu Dhabi, the route offers access to attractions such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Saadiyat Island’s cultural offerings, and the entertainment options on Yas Island. 

In the other direction, the new service opens the door to Uzbekistan’s own gems, including the historic architecture of Samarkand and Bukhara and the growing modern development of Tashkent.

Etihad highlights growth potential in Central Asia

Speaking at the launch event, Frank Meyer, Chief Digital Officer of Etihad Airways, called the inaugural flight a proud milestone for the airline’s continued network expansion. 

He described Uzbekistan as one of Central Asia’s most dynamic and fastest-growing markets, citing its cultural heritage, tourism appeal, and rising economic significance.

Meyer said the new daily nonstop service effectively opens a new gateway linking Central Asia with the rest of the world, giving travelers smooth connections through Abu Dhabi to Etihad’s expanding network, backed by the airline’s premium service standards.

Etihad said the route is intended to meet growing demand for travel between Uzbekistan, the UAE, and other international markets, supporting stronger tourism flows and business connectivity in both directions. 

The airline noted that the Tashkent launch is part of its broader strategy to connect high-potential markets to Abu Dhabi, reinforcing the emirate’s position as a link between East and West.

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