ABU DHABI- Etihad Airways (EY) has launched direct flights from Abu Dhabi (AUH) to Kraków (KRK) and Palma de Mallorca (PMI), expanding its European network with two new leisure-focused destinations. Both routes operate three times weekly using the airline’s Airbus A321LR aircraft.
The new services make Etihad Airways the only airline offering First Class cabins on flights connecting Abu Dhabi with Kraków (KRK) and Palma de Mallorca (PMI). The expansion strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a global aviation hub while improving connectivity between Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, India, and Australia.
Etihad 2 New Destinations
Etihad Airways has officially inaugurated flights to Kraków on 11 June and Palma de Mallorca on 12 June. The new routes represent another milestone in the carrier’s European expansion strategy and support Abu Dhabi’s growing role as one of the world’s most connected destinations.
The airline will operate both routes three times per week with the Airbus A321LR, offering travellers enhanced access to Europe while creating new opportunities for tourism, business travel, and international connectivity.
Etihad Airways Chief Executive Officer Antonoaldo Neves said the launch of the two routes demonstrates the airline’s ambitions in Europe and creates new opportunities for travellers, businesses, and local communities. He also highlighted Abu Dhabi’s appeal as a stopover destination and gateway to Etihad’s expanding global network.
The addition of Kraków and Palma de Mallorca further reinforces Etihad’s commitment to growing its European footprint while enhancing premium travel options from Abu Dhabi.
Kraków Becomes Etihad’s Second Destination in Poland
Kraków becomes Etihad’s newest destination in Poland, joining Warsaw, which was added to the airline’s network in June 2025. The route reflects Etihad’s long-term commitment to the Polish market and introduces a premium long-haul travel option for Southern Poland.
The airline is now the only carrier offering a First Class cabin between Kraków and the Gulf region.
This unique positioning provides travellers with a premium travel experience while connecting the city directly to Etihad’s extensive international network.
Kraków is one of Europe’s most visited cultural destinations and is home to the UNESCO-listed Old Town, historic Market Square, and the iconic Wawel Castle.
The city attracts visitors with its rich heritage, thriving arts scene, renowned gastronomy, and well-preserved medieval architecture.
The new service enables seamless travel between Southern Poland and Abu Dhabi while providing convenient onward connections across the Middle East, Asia, Africa, India, and Australia.
Palma de Mallorca Gains Its First Direct Link to the East
One day after launching Kraków services, Etihad commenced flights to Palma de Mallorca, the capital of Spain’s Balearic Islands.
The route marks the first direct connection linking the Balearic Islands with the East, creating a new travel corridor between one of Europe’s most popular Mediterranean destinations and Abu Dhabi.
Palma de Mallorca is known for combining historic charm with modern tourism appeal. Visitors can explore landmarks such as La Seu Cathedral, the city’s historic old town, luxury marinas, and a vibrant dining scene.
Beyond the capital, Mallorca offers secluded coves, turquoise waters, almond groves, and picturesque hilltop villages that attract visitors throughout the year.
The new route also improves access to Ibiza and the wider Balearic archipelago, allowing travellers from the Middle East, Asia, and other global markets to reach the islands through a single connection.
Premium Airbus A321LR Experience
Both routes are operated by Etihad’s Airbus A321LR, an aircraft designed to deliver a premium long-haul experience across all cabin classes.
The aircraft introduces a true First Class experience with two private First Suites featuring sliding doors for privacy. Each suite provides space to dine, work, relax, or travel with a companion.
The seats convert into fully flat beds and include luxury textiles, wireless charging, Bluetooth connectivity, and 20-inch 4K entertainment screens. Guests also receive Etihad’s signature First Class dining experience.
The Business Class cabin features 14 lie-flat seats arranged in a window-facing configuration. Every seat includes direct aisle access, offering greater privacy and convenience for premium travellers. Enhanced dining and premium amenities further elevate the onboard experience.
Economy Class accommodates 144 passengers in ergonomically designed seats equipped with 4K touchscreen entertainment systems.
Passengers also benefit from high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity and access to a wide selection of movies, television programmes, and other onboard entertainment.
Abu Dhabi Benefits from Expanded Connectivity
Passengers travelling from Poland, Spain, and the Balearic Islands now have direct access to Abu Dhabi and Etihad’s global route network.
The services strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a major international gateway while supporting tourism and business travel.
Travellers can also take advantage of stopover opportunities in the UAE capital and experience its cultural attractions, beaches, hospitality sector, and Emirati heritage before continuing their journey.
By adding Kraków and Palma de Mallorca, Etihad continues to expand its international reach while delivering premium travel experiences across key leisure and business markets.
Flight Schedule
Abu Dhabi (AUH) – Kraków (KRK)
| Flight | From | Departure | To | Arrival | Days | Aircraft |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EY163 | Abu Dhabi | 02:45 | Kraków | 06:55 | Monday, Thursday, Saturday | Airbus A321LR |
| EY164 | Kraków | 11:20 | Abu Dhabi | 19:00 | Monday, Thursday, Saturday | Airbus A321LR |
Abu Dhabi (AUH) – Palma de Mallorca (PMI)
| Flight | From | Departure | To | Arrival | Days | Aircraft |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EY115 | Abu Dhabi | 02:55 | Palma de Mallorca | 08:15 | Tuesday, Friday, Sunday | Airbus A321LR |
| EY116 | Palma de Mallorca | 10:30 | Abu Dhabi | 19:00 | Tuesday, Friday, Sunday | Airbus A321LR |
Bottom Line
The launch of Kraków and Palma de Mallorca services marks another significant step in Etihad Airways’ European expansion strategy.
With premium Airbus A321LR cabins, exclusive First Class offerings, and direct access through Abu Dhabi, the airline is strengthening travel links between Europe and key global markets while creating new opportunities for tourism and international connectivity.
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