Etihad Airways has commenced scheduled flights between its hub in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai, China.

The national airline of the United Arab Emirates will initially operate five weekly Airbus A330-300 services to Shanghai’s main international airport – Pudong (PVG) – with commitments to a daily schedule from April 15th.

Etihad chief executive, James Hogan, said the new route had special significance as the first non-stop commercial passenger flight between Abu Dhabi and Shanghai.

“The new Shanghai route adds much more than just another destination to the Etihad Airways global network.

“It brings the capital of the UAE and the commercial and financial centre of mainland China closer together and creates new opportunities for government, trade, tourism and cultural exchange.

“Shanghai is today the most populous city in China with an estimated 23 million inhabitants and is a powerhouse economy with a total GDP in excess of US$256.3 billion.

Hogan also noted the Abu Dhabi-Shanghai route was the only one in Etihad Airways’ China network to offer the luxury and prestige of a three-class aircraft with first, business and economy cabins.

“From our world-leading first class, with its private suites and onboard chefs, through to our inspired service in economy, Etihad Airways will offer travellers from the region an incomparable flying experience.”

First Class Benefits

Also today Etihad – recognised as the World’s Leading Airline by the World Travel Awards increased baggage allowances for all Pearl Business class and Diamond First class guests by ten kilograms.

Guests travelling in Pearl Business class will now have an allowance of 40kg, and guests in Diamond First class will have an allowance of 50kg.

Members of the Etihad Guest frequent flyer program travelling in the Diamond First class or Pearl Business class cabins will be able to enjoy additional baggage allowances.

Etihad Airways chief commercial, Peter Baumgartner, said: “We are delighted to be able to reward our premium guests and loyalty program members with an additional luggage allowance.

“At Etihad Airways, we are always looking to make the experience of flying as simple, convenient and rewarding as possible. We believe this increased allowance will prove very popular with our guests.”