The United Arab Emirates has gained two more carriers with the launch of its Abu Dhabi-based national airline Etihad Airways and low-cost concern Air Arabia. Etihad Airways launched operations on 12 November using two Airbus A330-200s leased from TAM, initially on services to Beirut and Damascus. More destinations in Asia-Pacific, the Indian subcontinent, the Middle East and the UK will be added as the A330 fleet grows next year. Meanwhile, Air Arabia has launched low-cost services from its Sharjah hub with two second hand A320s. Four new A320s will arrive from next year. Initial destinations include Bahrain, Beirut, Damascus, Kuwait and Tehran.
Source: Flight International
