Etihad Airways to launch flights to Dublin

India (SANEPR.com) February 9, 2007 -- Flying a three class Airbus A330-200 aircraft, the new four times a week service will link Ireland with one stop connections to Sydney in Australia and major cities in Asia, including Bangkok and Manila.

Bertie Ahern, the Prime Minister of Ireland, said: “Etihad is to be complimented for taking this opportunity and I have no doubts that its confidence will be rewarded. This new route will mark a further deepening of our relations with the Gulf region and Asia.

“I am particularly pleased that Irish travellers will have their first one-stop travel option to Australia.”

James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ chief executive, said: “This new air link between the capital cities of Ireland and the UAE brings together two thriving economies. It will also offer quick and easy transfers at Abu Dhabi for Irish business travellers and holiday makers to reach Asia and Australia. Plus, Abu Dhabi, as the capital city of the UAE, also opens up the country’s seven emirates, including Dubai.”

Declan Collier, chief executive, Dublin Airport Authority, said: “We’re delighted to welcome and support this new service following many months of detailed discussions between Etihad and the airport. The launch of this high quality service underpins Dublin airport’s commitment to developing new long-haul routes into and out of Ireland for business and leisure travellers.”

Starting on 3 August, Etihad’s flight EY045 will operate Mondays and Fridays, departing Abu Dhabi at 02.05, arriving at Dublin at 07.35. The flight returns the same day, with EY042 departing Dublin 10.15, arriving Abu Dhabi at 20.35.

The second flight, EY041 will operate Saturdays and Tuesdays, departing Abu Dhabi at 13.55 and arriving in Dublin at 19.25. The return flight, EY408 departs Dublin at 21.10, arriving Abu Dhabi at 07.30 the following day. All times are local.