ETIHAD Airways is increasing the frequency of its Abu Dhabi-Chengdu service from five-flights-a-week to daily from 30 March.
One of the biggest markets in China for attracting foreign direct investment (FDI), Chengdu has emerged as a leading economic, transportation and communications centre for the Asian country, with nearly half of the world’s Fortune 500 companies now having operations in the city.
Etihad launched its Chengdu service in December 2011, offering the first and only direct airline connection between the UAE and China’s Sichuan province, home to a population of some 80 million.
It is the third city to be served by Etihad in China, with daily flights also operated to the capital, Beijing, and the country’s largest city by population, Shanghai.
Passenger volumes on the Chengdu route increased by 25 per cent last year compared to 2012 levels, while cargo and mail volumes were 19 per cent higher.
James Hogan, chief executive of Etihad, says: “With consistent double-digit growth in passenger and cargo volumes, Chengdu represents a great opportunity. Our expanded service will further stimulate economic growth between China and the UAE.”