Etihad Airways has marked the tenth anniversary of its services to Manchester Airport.

Since the route was launched in March 2006, Etihad Airways has operated over 10,000 flights between Manchester and Abu Dhabi.

Due to its popularity in the north of England, the frequency increased to twice daily in August 2011. 

Over two million guests have flown between Manchester and Abu Dhabi on Etihad Airways in the past decade.

James Harrison, UK general manager for Etihad Airways, said: “Etihad Airways is delighted to be marking a highly successful decade operating out of Manchester.

“We’ve seen passenger numbers continually rise every year since we started operations, and Manchester is a key destination on our global network.

“It has an important role in our UK operation and has been a consistent success, regularly appearing in our top ten most popular destinations.

“In addition to the aircraft, we have made a huge investment in our brand through the sponsorship of Manchester City FC.

“Our European call centre is also based at Manchester Airport and houses over 200 staff.

“We operate two flights a day to Abu Dhabi connecting our guests to more than 100 destinations via our main hub in Abu Dhabi.

“At Terminal 1, there is an elegant premium lounge and we offer limousine services for our premium-class passengers.”

The route has also supported growth in cargo with over 30,000 tonnes of export cargo and over 40,000 tonnes of import cargo being carried during the last three years.

Cargo items have included vehicles and animals such as cats, dogs, falcons and ferrets.

The airline has also carried instruments used for medical purposes, blood samples and urgent pharmaceuticals for patient use.