About Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways is the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, flying under the IATA code EY and the 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. The name "Etihad" comes from the Arabic word for "union," a nod to the union of the seven emirates that make up the UAE.
From its early years, Etihad Airways has grown into one of the world's leading full-service carriers, operating more than 1,000 flights a week to over 90 passenger and cargo destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America. Its home hub is Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), now centered on the striking Zayed International Airport terminal that opened in recent years. For Filipino travelers, Etihad operates direct flights between Manila (MNL) and Abu Dhabi, giving passengers from the Philippines smooth onward access to destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa through a single, well-connected hub.
Airline Overview and History
Etihad Airways was founded during a period of rapid economic growth in Abu Dhabi, with a vision of building a world-class carrier that would put the emirate firmly on the global aviation map. Some of the airline's key milestones include:
- July 2003 — Etihad Airways is established by royal decree issued by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, with initial capital of AED 500 million
- November 2003 — The airline's first ceremonial flight to Al Ain takes off, followed by the launch of commercial service to Beirut with a starting fleet of two Airbus A330 aircraft
- 2004 — Etihad places a landmark US$8 billion order for 30 aircraft, including the Boeing 777-300ER and Airbus A380, signaling an ambitious growth plan
- 2005 — Long-haul service to North America begins, with flights connecting Abu Dhabi to New York
- 2008 — At the Farnborough Airshow, Etihad makes aviation history with an order valued at roughly US$43 billion, one of the largest aircraft orders ever placed at the time
- 2011 — The airline records its first full-year operating profit, a significant business milestone
- 2014 to 2015 — Etihad takes delivery of its first Airbus A380 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, introducing new cabin products including The Residence, First Apartment, and Business Studio
- 2023 — The airline marks 20 years of operations and returns to profitability with record annual earnings
- 2024 to 2026 — Etihad accelerates fleet renewal and network expansion with new aircraft deliveries, including additional Airbus A350-1000 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner units, while widening its interline and codeshare footprint with airlines such as Philippine Airlines, American Airlines, and Air France-KLM
Etihad Airways operates out of Abu Dhabi International Airport, which serves as its principal hub and features modern terminal facilities, premium lounges, and efficient transfer services. Etihad is not a member of Star Alliance, oneworld, or SkyTeam. Instead, it maintains an extensive network of codeshare and interline partnerships with airlines around the world, including Philippine Airlines, American Airlines, Air France-KLM, Korean Air, Turkish Airlines, Garuda Indonesia, and Malaysia Airlines, which extends its reach to hundreds of additional destinations beyond its own network.
Fleet and Aircraft
Etihad Airways operates a modern, mixed fleet of wide-body and narrow-body aircraft built to serve long-haul intercontinental routes as well as shorter regional services. The fleet is made up of aircraft from five families:
- Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner — The backbone of Etihad's long-haul fleet, with 37 aircraft delivering fuel-efficient performance and enhanced passenger comfort on medium- to long-haul routes, including Manila-Abu Dhabi
- 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 some of Etihad's busiest long-haul routes in a three-class configuration
- Boeing 777-200LR — Five ultra-long-range aircraft that enable non-stop service 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 Apartment, and Business Studio
- Airbus A321neo — Fifteen fuel-efficient narrow-body aircraft used mainly for regional and medium-haul services
- Airbus A320/A321 — A combined fleet of around 24 aircraft serving shorter regional routes across the Middle East, the Indian subcontinent, and nearby destinations
Etihad continues to invest heavily in fleet modernization, with orders for additional Airbus A350-1000, A350F, and A330-900neo aircraft, with deliveries expected from 2027 onward. The airline is targeting a fleet of 200 to 220 aircraft by 2030 to support its ambitious growth plans, including plans to gradually shift the A380 away from select long-haul routes in favor of the more efficient 787 and A350-1000.
Top Flight Routes
Etihad Airways connects the Philippines to Abu Dhabi with direct flights, making it a popular choice for Filipino travelers heading to the Middle East, Europe, and beyond. Passengers can enjoy convenient scheduling and seamless onward connections through Abu Dhabi. Here are some of the most popular routes and connections relevant to travelers from the Philippines:
- Manila to Abu Dhabi (MNL-AUH) — Direct flights with an average flying time of around 9 hours. Abu Dhabi serves as a gateway to Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa
- Manila to London — Connect via Abu Dhabi to London Heathrow, one of the most popular long-haul routes for Filipino travelers
- Manila to Paris — Connect through Abu Dhabi to Paris Charles de Gaulle, a top European destination for leisure and business
- Manila to Amsterdam — A convenient one-stop connection via Abu Dhabi to Amsterdam Schiphol
- Manila to Dubai — While Etihad is based in Abu Dhabi, travelers can also explore connections to Dubai, which is roughly an hour's drive from Abu Dhabi
- Manila to Jeddah — A key route for Filipino overseas workers and pilgrims, with a convenient connection through Abu Dhabi to Jeddah
- Manila to New Delhi — Etihad offers connections via Abu Dhabi to New Delhi, a major market for business and leisure travel
- Manila to Nairobi — A one-stop connection via Abu Dhabi to Nairobi, opening up East Africa for Filipino travelers
Whether you are flying for work, a holiday, or to see family working overseas in the Gulf region, Etihad's Abu Dhabi hub offers efficient connections with short layover times, making it an appealing option for Filipino travelers heading west.
Baggage Allowance and Policies
Etihad Airways offers generous baggage allowances 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 (Carry-On)
- 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. Basic Economy fares typically do not include a free checked bag
- Business Class — Free checked baggage allowance of 40 kg
- First Class and The Residence — Free checked baggage allowance of up to 50 kg
Important: A single piece of baggage should not weigh more than 32 kg. If your bag exceeds 32 kg, it must be split into multiple pieces or shipped as cargo.
Extra Baggage
If you need additional baggage beyond your free allowance, you can purchase extra baggage online through the Etihad website or at the time of booking. Buying online in advance is generally more cost-effective than paying excess baggage fees at the airport. Excess baggage fees vary by route, so it is worth checking Etihad's baggage calculator on its official site for exact pricing. Golfers can typically carry one set of golf clubs weighing up to 15 kg as part of their standard allowance, while other sports equipment such as surfboards, ski gear, and scuba equipment can usually be checked within the normal baggage rules, subject to length and weight limits.
Prohibited and Restricted Items
As with all airlines, certain items are prohibited in both cabin and checked baggage, including flammable liquids, explosives, pressurized gas, and sharp objects. Lithium batteries, power banks, and e-cigarettes must be carried in cabin baggage only. Always check the latest list of restricted items on the Etihad Airways website before packing.
Check-in Guide
Etihad Airways provides several check-in options to ensure a smooth travel experience:
Online Check-in
- Availability — Online check-in opens 48 hours before scheduled departure and closes about 90 minutes before departure for international flights
- How to access — Check in through 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. Counters typically open around 3 hours before departure
- Business Class — Priority check-in counters are available at most airports
- Economy Class — Standard check-in counters. Passengers are advised to arrive at least 3 hours before an international departure
- Counter closing time — Airport check-in counters usually 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 already checked in online or via a kiosk.
Cabin Classes and In-Flight Experience
Etihad Airways is known for a premium in-flight experience across all cabin classes. The airline offers up to four distinct cabin products depending on aircraft type:
Economy Class
Etihad Economy delivers a comfortable travel experience with ergonomically designed seats, adjustable headrests, and a personal entertainment screen at every seat. Passengers enjoy complimentary meals that are all halal-certified, 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 a full flat bed with direct aisle access, giving passengers maximum privacy and comfort. Business Class passengers enjoy a "dine anytime" service with an a la carte halal menu inspired by global cuisines, premium beverages, noise-canceling headphones, and enhanced entertainment options on a larger personal screen. Complimentary wifi is available on select aircraft, along with amenity kits designed in partnership with luxury brands.
First Class (First Apartment)
Available on Airbus A380 aircraft, the First Apartment is a fully enclosed private suite with a separate lounge seat and a full flat bed. Each suite features a personal wardrobe, minibar, vanity mirror, and a large personal entertainment screen. First Class passengers also have access to the Lobby Lounge on the A380, as well as a private spa shower. Meals are served on fine porcelain tableware with menus curated by world-class chefs, all meeting halal standards.
The Residence (A380 Exclusive)
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 en-suite bathroom with a shower. Guests in The Residence receive a dedicated personal butler 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 content library across all cabin classes, including the latest Hollywood, Bollywood, Arabic, and Asian films, TV series, music playlists, podcasts, games, and live TV channels. Touchscreen display sizes vary 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. This is a meaningful advantage for Filipino Muslim travelers and those simply looking for reassurance about their meal choices. Economy passengers receive complimentary multi-course meals, while Business and First Class passengers enjoy premium a la carte dining. 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 needs:
Children and Infants
- Infants (7 days to 23 months) — Must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or older. Each adult may carry 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 may travel using the Unaccompanied Minor service
- Twins or multiple infants — Each infant must be accompanied by a separate adult aged 18 or older
Unaccompanied Minors
- Ages 5 to 11 — The Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service is mandatory and provided free of charge. The service must be arranged in advance through the Etihad contact center
- Ages 12 to 17 — The UM service is optional. If requested, a fee of around 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 — Not eligible for the Unaccompanied Minor service and must travel with an accompanying adult
Pregnant Passengers
- Up to 28 weeks — No medical certificate required, although consulting a doctor before flying is recommended
- 29 to 36 weeks (single pregnancy) — A medical certificate is required, confirming fitness to fly, the number of weeks pregnant, and the expected delivery date. The letter must be dated within 3 weeks of travel and written in English or Arabic
- 29 to 32 weeks (twin pregnancy) — A medical certificate is required. Travel is not permitted beyond 32 weeks for twin pregnancies
- Beyond 36 weeks (single) or 32 weeks (twins) — Travel is not permitted
Traveling with Pets
Small cats and dogs may travel in the cabin on select Etihad-operated flights, subject to size and weight limits for the pet and carrier combined, along with advance booking requirements and supporting documents submitted before departure. Larger pets, or pets on routes where cabin travel is not offered, can be transported as manifested cargo through Etihad Cargo. Pet owners should confirm requirements directly with Etihad well ahead of their travel date, since documentation and health certificate rules vary by destination.
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 insulated. Removable batteries can be detached and carried as checked baggage
- Passengers who require in-flight oxygen or a portable oxygen concentrator (POC) must obtain medical clearance by submitting a MEDIF form at least 72 hours before departure
- Accessible toilets and onboard wheelchairs are available on most Etihad aircraft to assist passengers with limited mobility
Reschedule, Cancellation, and Refund Policy
Etihad Airways provides several options for passengers who need to change or cancel their flight:
Flight Reschedule
- Flight changes can be made through the Etihad website, the mobile app, or by contacting the Etihad Guest contact center
- If you booked through Traveloka, you can also manage changes through the Traveloka app or website under the My Bookings menu
- Change fees and fare differences may apply depending on your fare type. Flex and Business Flex fares typically allow free date and route changes
Cancellation and Refunds
- Refundable fares — Full or partial refunds are available depending on 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, depending on fare conditions and cancellation fees
- Airline-initiated cancellations — If Etihad cancels or significantly changes your flight schedule, 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 through other payment methods may take up to 45 business days
Refund Requests through Traveloka
If you booked your Etihad Airways flight through Traveloka, you can submit a refund request directly through the Traveloka app or website. Open My Bookings, select the relevant reservation, and follow the prompts to request a reschedule or refund. Traveloka's customer support team is available 24/7 to help 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 main reasons to book through Traveloka:
- Competitive fares — Traveloka aggregates fares from multiple sources, helping you find great value for Etihad flights from Manila to Abu Dhabi and beyond
- Exclusive promos and deals — Enjoy regular promotions, flash sales, and exclusive Traveloka discounts on Etihad Airways flights
- Flexible payment options — Pay using credit or debit cards, GCash, Maya, or other popular digital wallets
- Installment plans — Spread the cost of your flight with Traveloka installment options or credit card installment plans, making premium travel more affordable
- Instant e-tickets — Receive a confirmed e-ticket straight to your email and the Traveloka app right after booking
- 24/7 customer support — Traveloka's multilingual customer service team is available around the clock to help with bookings, changes, and travel questions
- Traveloka Points — Earn Traveloka Points on every booking, which can be redeemed for discounts on 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 Flights on Traveloka
Finding great deals on Etihad Airways flights 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, the Christmas season, and Holy Week
- Stay flexible with dates — Use Traveloka's price calendar to compare fares across different dates. Flying on weekdays (Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday) is often cheaper than weekend departures
- Set a Price Alert — Turn on Traveloka's Price Alert for your preferred route and get notified when fares drop, so you never miss a good deal
- Check ongoing promos — Visit the Traveloka Promo page regularly for flash sales, bank partner offers, and seasonal discounts on Etihad flights
- Travel outside peak season — Avoid school holidays, national holidays, and major events for 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 flights together with a hotel on Traveloka to unlock package discounts and additional savings
- Use digital wallet promos — Pay with GCash or Maya to take advantage of cashback offers and exclusive digital wallet promotions
How to Book Flight Tickets on Traveloka
Booking an Etihad Airways flight on Traveloka only takes a few simple steps:
- Open the Traveloka app or visit www.traveloka.com in your browser
- Select Flights from the main menu and choose your trip type (one-way, round-trip, or multi-city)
- Enter your departure city (for example, Manila) and destination (for example, Abu Dhabi, London, or Paris) along with your travel dates and number of passengers
- Browse the search results and use the 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 it appears on the passport, contact information, and any special requests such as meal preferences or wheelchair assistance
- Choose your preferred payment method, such as a credit or debit card, GCash, Maya, or an installment plan
- Complete payment and receive your confirmed e-ticket instantly via email and the Traveloka app
- Check in online through the Etihad website or app up to 48 hours before departure, or check your flight status on Traveloka before heading to the airport