New airline at CLT connects Queen City to Abu Dhabi nonstop for first time

CHARLOTTE, N.C.- The Charlotte Douglas International Airport is welcoming its first new global partner in nearly a decade: Etihad Airways.

The first flight landed Friday, marking the first-ever non-stop connection between the Queen City and Abu Dhabi. It’s also the longest flight in CLT history, clocking in at over 14 hours.

Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles says the new service opens the door for increased business growth and international partnerships across the Queen City.