Etihad Airways has launched two new European routes with direct services to Kraków in Poland and Palma de Mallorca in Spain as part of its network expansion.
The latest additions reflect its growing focus on strengthening connectivity between Abu Dhabi and key leisure and business markets in Europe while enhancing its global route network.
Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said that the new routes demonstrate the airline’s continued expansion in Europe and its commitment to offering more travel options for passengers across its network.
Neves added that Kraków and Palma de Mallorca are important leisure destinations that will benefit from direct connectivity with Abu Dhabi and Etihad’s wider global network.
Expansion into Poland and Spain
The Kraków service marks Etihad’s continued growth in Poland, following the launch of flights to Warsaw in June 2025.
The airline stated that the new route will provide enhanced connectivity for southern Poland and offer premium long-haul travel options between Kraków and the Gulf region. Etihad will also be the only carrier operating a First-Class cabin on the route.
Kraków, one of Poland’s major cultural and tourism centers, is expected to strengthen outbound and inbound travel flows between Central Europe and the UAE while also supporting connections across Etihad’s global network.
The airline also commenced services to Palma de Mallorca on 12 June 2026, describing it as the first direct connection between the Balearic Islands and destinations in the East. The route is operated using the Airbus A321LR aircraft.
Palma de Mallorca, the capital of Spain’s Balearic Islands, is a key Mediterranean destination known for its tourism, coastal attractions, and historical sites.
The new service is expected to improve access between the region and Abu Dhabi, as well as onward destinations in Asia, the Middle East, and Australia.
Network and product offering
Etihad stated that both routes are part of its broader strategy to expand its European footprint while strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as an international aviation hub.
The airline highlighted that the new services will provide improved access to its global network and support growing demand for leisure travel.
The Airbus A321LR aircraft deployed on the Palma de Mallorca route features First, Business, and Economy cabins, including private First suites, lie-flat Business seats, and upgraded in-flight connectivity and entertainment systems.
