The Gulf Is Getting Its First Nonstop Link to Western Canada

Etihad Airways is scheduled to begin flying between Abu Dhabi and Calgary on October 25, a route planned as the first nonstop link between the Middle East and Western Canada. For travellers in Alberta, it creates a direct path to the Gulf and onward connections across Asia, Africa and beyond.

The launch sits within a busy week of new service. British Airways begins London Gatwick–Colombo on October 23, United starts Chicago O’Hare–Tokyo Narita on October 24, and Finnair, Lufthansa and Air Canada all add routes on October 25, alongside Jetstar’s inaugural flight from the new Western Sydney airport.

Etihad is also expanding in Africa. Its Abu Dhabi–Lagos service starts on March 23, 2027, with Accra following the next day, and a new interline agreement with Ibom Air provides connections to five Nigerian cities. Separately, Ethiopian Airlines will return to Durban with daily flights from December 11 after a nine-year absence.

The Calgary flight arrives while some Gulf aviation is under pressure from regional security events, including the closure of Riyadh’s main airport. Passengers booked on Gulf carriers should keep an eye on airline notices, and anyone eyeing the new Calgary route should confirm schedules and aircraft closer to departure.

Sources: eTurboNews, Travel Monitor