About Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways is the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, operating under IATA code EY and ICAO code ETD. Headquartered in Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi, the airline was established by royal decree in July 2003 and is wholly owned by the Abu Dhabi government through ADQ (formerly Abu Dhabi Development Holding Company). The name "Etihad" is derived from the Arabic word for "union," symbolising the unity of the seven emirates that form the UAE.
Since its inception, Etihad Airways has grown into one of the world's leading full-service carriers, operating more than 1,000 flights per week to over 120 passenger and cargo destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia and North America. The airline's main hub is Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), which underwent a major transformation with the opening of the new Zayed International Airport terminal. For travellers from Malaysia, Etihad offers direct flights from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) to Abu Dhabi, providing seamless connectivity to destinations across Europe, the Middle East and beyond.
Airline Overview and History
Etihad Airways was founded during a period of rapid economic growth in Abu Dhabi, with a vision to establish a world-class airline that would put the emirate on the global aviation map. Key milestones in the airline's history include:
- July 2003 — Etihad Airways established by royal decree issued by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, with AED 500 million in start-up capital.
- November 2003 — Ceremonial first flight to Al Ain on 5 November, followed by the launch of commercial services to Beirut on 12 November with a fleet of two Airbus A330 aircraft.
- 2004 — Placed a landmark US$8 billion order for 30 aircraft, including Boeing 777-300ERs and Airbus A380s, signalling ambitious growth plans.
- October 2005 — Launched long-haul services to North America, operating three-times-weekly flights to New York.
- 2008 — Made aviation history at the Farnborough Airshow with an order valued at US$43 billion, the world's largest aircraft order at the time.
- 2011 — Recorded its first full-year operating profit, marking a major business milestone.
- 2014–2015 — Took delivery of the first Airbus A380 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner, introducing new cabin products including The Residence, First Class Apartments and Business Studios.
- 2023 — Celebrated 20 years of operations and announced a return to profitability with a record annual profit.
- 2024–2025 — Accelerated fleet renewal and expansion with record aircraft deliveries, including new Airbus A350-1000 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner additions.
The airline operates from Abu Dhabi International Airport, which serves as its primary hub and offers modern terminal facilities, premium lounges and efficient transfer services. Etihad Airways is not a member of any major airline alliance but maintains an extensive codeshare network with partner airlines worldwide, including strategic partnerships that extend its global reach.
Fleet and Aircraft
Etihad Airways operates a modern and diverse fleet of wide-body and narrow-body aircraft, designed to serve both long-haul intercontinental routes and shorter regional services. As of early 2026, the airline's fleet comprises approximately 121 aircraft across several aircraft families:
- Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner — The backbone of Etihad's long-haul fleet, with 37 aircraft offering fuel-efficient performance and enhanced passenger comfort on medium to long-haul routes.
- Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner — A larger variant of the 787 family, with 10 aircraft deployed on high-demand routes.
- Boeing 777-300ER — Nine aircraft serving Etihad's busiest long-haul routes with three-class configurations.
- Boeing 777-200LR — Five ultra-long-range aircraft enabling non-stop services to distant destinations.
- Airbus A350-1000 — Nine next-generation wide-body aircraft featuring Etihad's latest cabin interiors and industry-leading fuel efficiency, with additional deliveries planned.
- Airbus A380-800 — Six double-decker aircraft operating premium routes to destinations including London, Paris, Singapore and Toronto, featuring The Residence, First Class Apartments and Business Studios.
- Airbus A321neo — Fifteen fuel-efficient narrow-body aircraft used primarily for regional and medium-haul services.
- Airbus A320/A321 — A combined fleet of approximately 24 aircraft serving shorter regional routes across the Middle East, Indian subcontinent and nearby destinations.
Etihad continues to invest heavily in fleet modernisation, with orders for additional Airbus A350-1000s, A350F freighters and A330-900neos, with deliveries expected from 2027 onwards. The airline is targeting a fleet of 200 to 220 aircraft by 2030 to support its ambitious growth plans.
Top Flight Routes
Etihad Airways connects Kuala Lumpur to Abu Dhabi with direct daily flights, making it a popular choice for Malaysian travellers heading to the Middle East, Europe and beyond. With 14 weekly flights on the KUL–AUH route, passengers can enjoy convenient scheduling and seamless onward connections through Abu Dhabi. Here are some of the most popular routes and connections relevant to Malaysian travellers:
- Kuala Lumpur to Abu Dhabi (KUL–AUH) — Direct flights with an average flight time of approximately 7 hours and 10 minutes. Abu Dhabi serves as a gateway to Europe, the Middle East and North Africa.
- Kuala Lumpur to London — Fly via Abu Dhabi to London Heathrow, one of the most popular long-haul routes for Malaysian travellers.
- Kuala Lumpur to Paris — Connect through Abu Dhabi to reach Paris Charles de Gaulle, a top European destination for leisure and business travel.
- Kuala Lumpur to Amsterdam — Convenient one-stop connections via Abu Dhabi to Amsterdam Schiphol.
- Kuala Lumpur to Dubai — While Etihad is based in Abu Dhabi, travellers can also explore connections to Dubai, located just over an hour's drive from Abu Dhabi.
- Kuala Lumpur to Jeddah — A vital route for Malaysian Umrah and Hajj pilgrims, with convenient connections through Abu Dhabi to Jeddah.
- Kuala Lumpur to New Delhi — Etihad offers connections via Abu Dhabi to New Delhi, a key market for business and leisure travel.
- Kuala Lumpur to Mumbai — Convenient one-stop service via Abu Dhabi to Mumbai.
Whether you are flying for business, leisure or religious travel, Etihad's Abu Dhabi hub provides efficient connections with short layover times, making it a compelling option for Malaysian travellers heading west.
Baggage Allowance and Policies
Etihad Airways offers a generous baggage allowance across all cabin classes, with specific entitlements depending on your fare type and route. Here is a summary of the airline's baggage policy:
Cabin Baggage (Hand Luggage)
- Economy Class — One carry-on bag weighing up to 7 kg, with maximum dimensions of 56 cm x 36 cm x 23 cm.
- Business Class — Two carry-on bags with a combined weight of up to 12 kg, each not exceeding 56 cm x 36 cm x 23 cm, plus one additional personal item (up to 5 kg, 23 cm x 39 cm x 19 cm).
- First Class — Two carry-on bags with a combined weight of up to 12 kg, each not exceeding 56 cm x 36 cm x 23 cm, plus one additional personal item (up to 5 kg, 23 cm x 39 cm x 19 cm).
Checked Baggage
Etihad uses a weight-based system for most international routes (except flights to and from the United States and Canada, which use a piece-based system):
- Economy Class — Free checked baggage allowance of 23 kg to 35 kg depending on fare type. The Economy Basic fare does not include any free checked baggage.
- Business Class — Free checked baggage allowance of 40 kg.
- First Class and The Residence — Free checked baggage allowance of up to 50 kg.
Important: No single bag may weigh more than 32 kg. If your luggage exceeds 32 kg, it must be split into multiple bags or sent as cargo.
Excess Baggage
If you need additional baggage beyond your free allowance, you can purchase extra baggage online through the Etihad website or during booking. Pre-purchasing online can save you up to 65 per cent compared to airport rates. Exact excess baggage fees vary by route — use the Etihad Baggage Calculator on the official website for precise pricing. For US and Canada routes, excess baggage is charged at approximately AED 500 per additional piece (up to 32 kg).
Prohibited and Restricted Items
As with all airlines, certain items are prohibited in both cabin and checked baggage, including flammable liquids, explosives, compressed gases and sharp objects. Lithium batteries, power banks and e-cigarettes must be carried in cabin baggage only. Always check the latest prohibited items list on the Etihad Airways website before packing.
Check-in Guide
Etihad Airways provides multiple check-in options to ensure a smooth travel experience:
Online Check-in
- Availability — Online check-in opens 48 hours before your scheduled departure time and closes approximately 90 minutes before departure for international flights.
- How to access — Check in via the Etihad website (etihad.com) or the Etihad Airways mobile app.
- Benefits — Select or change your seat, add baggage, download your boarding pass and save time at the airport.
Airport Counter Check-in
- First Class and The Residence — Dedicated check-in counters with priority service. Check-in counters open approximately 3 hours before departure.
- Business Class — Priority check-in counters available at most airports.
- Economy Class — Standard check-in counters. It is recommended to arrive at least 3 hours before your international flight departure.
- Check-in closing time — Airport check-in counters typically close 60 minutes before departure for all flights.
Self-Service Kiosks
At Abu Dhabi International Airport and select other airports, self-service kiosks are available for quick check-in, seat selection and boarding pass printing. Bag drop counters are also available for passengers who have checked in online or via kiosks.
Cabin Classes and In-Flight Experience
Etihad Airways is renowned for its premium in-flight experience across all cabin classes. The airline offers up to four distinct cabin products depending on the aircraft type:
Economy Class
Etihad Economy provides a comfortable travel experience with ergonomically designed seats, adjustable headrests and personal seatback entertainment screens. Passengers enjoy complimentary meals, a wide selection of beverages and access to Etihad's E-BOX in-flight entertainment system, which features hundreds of movies, TV shows, music, games and live television channels in multiple languages. Blankets, pillows and amenity kits are provided on long-haul flights.
Business Class (Business Studio)
Etihad's Business Studio features fully flat beds with direct aisle access, offering passengers maximum privacy and comfort. Business Class passengers enjoy a "dine anytime" service with an a la carte menu inspired by global cuisines, premium beverages, noise-cancelling headphones and an enhanced entertainment selection on larger personal screens. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available on select aircraft, along with an amenity kit designed in collaboration with luxury brands.
First Class (First Apartment)
Available on Airbus A380 aircraft, the First Class Apartment is a fully enclosed private suite with a separate reclining lounge seat and a full-length flatbed. Each suite features a personal wardrobe, minibar, vanity mirror and a large personal entertainment screen. First Class passengers also have access to the onboard Lobby Lounge on the A380, as well as a personal shower spa. Dining is served on fine chinaware with a menu curated by world-class chefs.
The Residence (A380 only)
The Residence is Etihad's ultra-premium cabin product, available exclusively on the Airbus A380. It is a three-room suite comprising a private living room with a 32-inch flat-screen TV, a separate bedroom with a full-size double bed and an ensuite shower room. Guests in The Residence receive a personal butler service throughout the flight. This product is currently available on select A380 routes including London, Paris, Singapore and Toronto.
In-Flight Entertainment (E-BOX)
Etihad's E-BOX entertainment system offers an extensive library of content across all cabin classes, including the latest Hollywood, Bollywood, Arabic and Asian films, TV series, music playlists, podcasts, games and live TV channels. Touchscreen displays vary in size by cabin class, with the largest screens found in First Class and The Residence.
In-Flight Meals
All meals served on Etihad Airways are halal-certified, so there is no need to request a halal meal separately. Economy passengers receive complimentary multi-course meals, while Business and First Class passengers enjoy premium dining with a la carte menus. Special dietary meals — including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, kosher and diabetic options — can be requested at least 24 hours before departure through the Manage My Booking section on the Etihad website.
Passenger Policies and Special Services
Etihad Airways offers a range of services to accommodate passengers with special requirements:
Children and Infants
- Infants (7 days to 23 months) — Must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over. Each adult may travel with one infant on their lap. Bassinets are available on request for long-haul flights (subject to availability).
- Children (2 to 11 years) — Must be accompanied by an adult or can travel under the Unaccompanied Minor service.
- Twins or multiple infants — Each infant must be accompanied by a separate adult aged 18 or over.
Unaccompanied Minors
- Ages 5 to 11 — The Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service is mandatory and provided free of charge. The service must be booked in advance through the Etihad contact centre.
- Ages 12 to 17 — The UM service is optional. If requested, a fee of approximately USD 100 per direction applies for direct flights, or USD 150 per direction for connecting flights. Children aged 12 and above may also travel independently on an adult ticket.
- Under 5 years — Not eligible for the Unaccompanied Minor service and must travel with an accompanying adult.
Pregnant Passengers
- Up to 28 weeks — No medical certificate required, though it is recommended to consult your doctor before flying.
- 29 to 36 weeks (single pregnancy, up to end of 36th week) — A medical certificate is required, confirming fitness to fly, the number of weeks of pregnancy and the expected delivery date. The certificate must be dated within 3 weeks of travel and written in English or Arabic.
- 29 to 32 weeks (multiple pregnancy) — A medical certificate is required. Travel is not permitted beyond 32 weeks for multiple pregnancies.
- Beyond 36 completed weeks (single) or 32 weeks (multiple) — Travel is not permitted.
Special Assistance and Wheelchair Services
- Wheelchair assistance is available free of charge on all Etihad flights. Passengers should request wheelchair service at least 48 hours before departure.
- Mobility aids, wheelchairs and medical equipment can be carried free of charge in addition to the standard baggage allowance.
- Electric wheelchairs must use dry-cell batteries, with all electrical circuits isolated. Detachable batteries may be removed and carried as checked baggage.
- Passengers requiring in-flight oxygen or portable oxygen concentrators (POC) must obtain medical clearance by submitting a MEDIF form at least 72 hours before departure.
- Accessible toilets and onboard cabin chairs are available on the majority of Etihad aircraft to assist passengers with reduced mobility.
Reschedule, Cancellation, and Refund Policy
Etihad Airways provides several options for passengers who need to change or cancel their flights:
Rescheduling Your Flight
- Flight changes can be made through the Etihad website, mobile app, or by contacting the Etihad Guest contact centre.
- If you booked through Traveloka, you can also manage changes through the Traveloka app or website under My Booking.
- Change fees and fare differences may apply depending on your fare type. Flex and Business Flex fares typically offer free date and route changes.
Cancellation and Refund
- Refundable fares — Full or partial refunds are available depending on the fare conditions. Refund requests can be submitted through the Etihad website.
- Non-refundable fares — Passengers with non-refundable tickets may receive a travel credit or voucher for future travel, subject to fare rules and cancellation fees.
- Airline-initiated cancellations — If Etihad cancels or significantly reschedules your flight, you are entitled to a full refund or rebooking on an alternative flight at no additional cost.
- Refund processing time — Credit card refunds are typically processed within 21 days. Refunds via other payment methods may take up to 45 business days.
Refund Requests via Traveloka
If you booked your Etihad Airways flight through Traveloka, you can submit a refund request directly through the Traveloka app or website. Go to My Booking, select the relevant booking, and follow the prompts to request a reschedule or refund. Traveloka's customer support team is available 24/7 to assist with any booking changes.
Why Book Etihad Airways Flights on Traveloka
Traveloka makes booking Etihad Airways flights easy, affordable and hassle-free. Here are the top reasons to book through Traveloka:
- Competitive prices — Traveloka aggregates fares from multiple sources, helping you find the best available prices for Etihad flights from Kuala Lumpur to Abu Dhabi and beyond.
- Exclusive promos and deals — Enjoy regular promotions, flash sales and Traveloka-exclusive discounts on Etihad Airways flights.
- Flexible payment options — Pay using credit cards, debit cards, online banking, or popular Malaysian e-wallets including Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay and ShopeePay.
- Instalment plans — Spread the cost of your flight with Traveloka PayLater or credit card instalment options, making premium travel more accessible.
- Instant e-ticket — Receive your confirmed e-ticket instantly via email and the Traveloka app after booking.
- 24/7 customer support — Traveloka's multilingual customer service team is available around the clock to assist with bookings, changes and any travel queries.
- Traveloka Points — Earn Traveloka Points on every booking, which can be redeemed for discounts on future flights, hotels and other travel products.
- All-in-one travel platform — Book flights, hotels, airport transfers and travel insurance in one place for a seamless trip planning experience.
Tips for Finding Cheap Etihad Airways Flights on Traveloka
Getting the best deal on your Etihad Airways flight is easier with these practical tips:
- Book early — Fares tend to be lower when booked well in advance, especially for peak travel periods such as school holidays, festive seasons and Hajj/Umrah periods.
- Be flexible with dates — Use Traveloka's fare calendar to compare prices across different dates. Flying on weekdays (Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday) is often cheaper than weekend departures.
- Set up Price Alerts — Enable Traveloka Price Alerts for your preferred route and get notified when fares drop, so you never miss a good deal.
- Check for promotions — Visit the Traveloka Promos page regularly for flash sales, bank partner offers and seasonal discounts on Etihad flights.
- Travel during off-peak periods — Avoid school holidays, public holidays and major events to secure lower fares. Shoulder seasons (just before or after peak periods) often offer the best value.
- Compare nearby airports — If your final destination in Europe or the Middle East has multiple airports, compare fares to find the most affordable option.
- Bundle and save — Book your flight together with a hotel on Traveloka to unlock bundle discounts and additional savings.
- Use e-wallet promotions — Pay with Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay or ShopeePay to take advantage of cashback offers and e-wallet-specific promotions.
How to Book Etihad Airways Flight Tickets on Traveloka
Booking your Etihad Airways flight on Traveloka takes just a few simple steps:
- Open the Traveloka app or visit www.traveloka.com on your browser.
- Select Flights from the main menu and choose your trip type (one-way, return or multi-city).
- Enter your departure city (e.g., Kuala Lumpur) and destination (e.g., Abu Dhabi, London, Paris) along with your travel dates and number of passengers.
- Browse the search results and use filters to narrow down options by airline (select Etihad Airways), price range, departure time and number of stops.
- Select your preferred Etihad Airways flight and review the fare details, including baggage allowance, cabin class and fare conditions.
- Enter passenger details, including full name as per passport, contact information and any special requests (e.g., meal preferences, wheelchair assistance).
- Choose your preferred payment method — credit card, debit card, online banking or e-wallet (Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay or ShopeePay).
- Complete your payment and receive your confirmed e-ticket instantly via email and the Traveloka app.
- Check in online via the Etihad website or app up to 48 hours before departure, or check your flight status on Traveloka before heading to the airport.