The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) celebrated the first Etihad Airways flight from Abu Dhabi to Chiang Mai on 4th November, a significant addition to Thailand’s international connectivity strategy. This inaugural flight is seen as a crucial step in TAT’s Airline Focus strategy, enhancing tourism flow to the region.

Flight EY426 arrived at Chiang Mai International Airport at 06:05, accompanied by a traditional Thai welcome and water salute. The ceremony featured TAT’s Deputy Governor for Policy Planning, Chuwit Sirivajjakul, and Chiang Mai’s Deputy Governor, Weerapong Ritrod, among other dignitaries and industry partners.

Passengers on this flight received souvenirs as part of the welcoming experience. According to Sirivajjakul, this new route is significant, as it provides better access for travelers from the Middle East and enhances opportunities for longer stays for visitors from Europe and the Americas.

Etihad Airways will operate four flights per week using an Airbus A321LR, which has a seating capacity of 160. This route is particularly noteworthy as it is the longest direct service from Chiang Mai, measuring 4,612 kilometers.

The Middle East continues to be a fast-growing market for Thailand, with strong ties to high-income travelers seeking family and luxury experiences. Between January and October 2025, over 679,924 visitors from this region were welcomed, and numbers are expected to exceed 850,000 by year-end.