Etihad Airways has reached new heights by establishing its presence in the United States through the introduction of its inaugural flight from Abu Dhabi's Zayed International Airport to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Flight EK 13 embarked on its journey from Abu Dhabi at 09:34 local time and touched down in Atlanta at 16:40 local time after a journey spanning slightly over 15 hours. Atlanta now stands as the fifth US destination in Etihad's network, alongside prominent cities like New York City, Chicago, Washington D.C., and Boston.

The latest addition to their service offerings marks a significant milestone for Etihad Airways. The passengers on this route are able to go through the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Preclearance facility at Abu Dhabi Airport. This advance clearance process enables them to complete US immigration and customs procedures prior to departure, allowing for a smoother transition upon arrival in the United States.

The Etihad Airways flight to Atlanta is carried out using their state-of-the-art Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. Initially operating four times a week, the frequency of flights will ramp up to daily departures starting November 2025 due to the overwhelming demand from both leisure and business sectors.

Antonoaldo Neves, the Chief Executive Officer at Etihad Airways, highlighted the significance of the new service to Atlanta by stating, "This new service enhances access to the southeastern United States while offering seamless connections across the Middle East, Indian Subcontinent, and Asia. With US Preclearance at Zayed International Airport, guests can enjoy the convenience of arriving in Atlanta as domestic travelers. We’re delighted to bring our award-winning experience to guests traveling to and from Atlanta."

Neves expressed his enthusiasm for the response received for this route, mentioning the remarkable early bookings that have led to the decision to increase the flight frequency. The positive reception indicates a growing interest among travelers to explore the offerings of Abu Dhabi, from its stunning beaches and theme parks to its rich cultural experiences and delectable cuisine.

The news of this expansion promises exciting opportunities for travelers looking to discover the wonders of Abu Dhabi while establishing Atlanta as a vital hub in Etihad Airways' ever-expanding global network.