Etihad’s bet on Charlotte underscores a broader strategy: using Abu Dhabi’s growing hub status, and its unique U.S. Pre-Clearance advantage, to build traffic beyond traditional gateways.
Speaking to Skift, Arik De, Etihad's Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, says the airline is working to rewrite the rulebook on first class, proving that ultra-premium doesn’t have to mean unprofitable.
Given that 7 out of the 10 new destinations Etihad is launching are in Asia, it's surprising that India isn’t on the list. India’s growing travel demand and strategic importance make it a notable omission from an otherwise ambitious expansion plan.
Skift is honored to present the latest installment of our Generation Next series – this time dedicated to spotlighting remarkable women leaders shaping travel in the Middle East and North Africa
Etihad’s fresh management team is seeking to avoid the mistakes of the past and deliver blockbuster growth. Speaking exclusively to Skift, Arik De tells us why this time is different.