Etihad Airways Ends Flights to Seychelles and Air Seychelles steps in to fill gap

Etihad Airways has discontinued its direct flight services between Abu Dhabi and Seychelles as of May 22, 2025. This strategic change marks the end of an era for the Gulf carrier on the Indian Ocean route but also opens the door for the national airline of Seychelles to step in and strengthen its regional presence.

Air Seychelles to the Rescue

Stepping in to fill the gap is Air Seychelles, the national carrier of the island nation, which took over the route as of May 23, 2025 and they’re not just picking up where Etihad left off. They’re expanding service in a big way.

Instead of Etihad’s twice-weekly flights, Air Seychelles will offer six flights a week using their fuel-efficient Airbus A320neo aircraft. Flights will depart from Seychelles daily except Thursdays and from Abu Dhabi daily except Fridays. That’s great news for both leisure travellers and those doing business in the region.

More Than Just a Route Swap

This transition isn’t just about one airline replacing another. It’s also the result of a revamped codeshare partnership between Air Seychelles and Etihad Airways. That means travellers can book flights through either airline and enjoy smooth connections from Seychelles to destinations across Europe, Asia, and North America via Abu Dhabi. For those who love the convenience of Etihad’s network but want to experience the warmth and hospitality of the Seychelles’ national airline, this is the best of both worlds.

Why the Change?

Etihad’s decision to step back from this route seems to align with a broader strategy to focus on core, high-demand destinations. Meanwhile, Air Seychelles is actively rebuilding its international network and clearly sees strong potential in the Abu Dhabi-Seychelles corridor, especially as the islands continue to attract tourists from the UAE and beyond.

So, if you’ve been dreaming of turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and lush tropical escapes, your trip just got easier. With Air Seychelles increasing flight frequency and partnering with Etihad to keep global connections strong, the future looks bright for travel between Abu Dhabi and the Seychelles.