Etihad Launches Abu Dhabi–Kraków Seasonal Flights from 11 June

Etihad Airways began its inaugural seasonal service between Abu Dhabi (AUH) and Kraków John Paul II International Airport (KRK) on 11 June 2026, slightly ahead of the originally announced June 16 launch date. The service operates three times per week and runs until 5 September 2026.

Etihad is using the Airbus A321LR on the route, a narrowbody designed for medium-haul distances that allows the airline to serve secondary European cities efficiently. The aircraft configuration includes Etihad’s Business Studio in the forward cabin — and unusually for a narrowbody, the carrier has confirmed that this is the first time Etihad’s First cabin is available to Polish travellers.

Why This Matters for Travellers

Visitors from the Gulf region and travellers connecting through Abu Dhabi on Etihad’s long-haul network (Australia, India, Southeast Asia, East Africa) now have a direct option into Kraków rather than routing through Warsaw. For those visiting southern Poland — Kraków, Zakopane, the Tatras, and the Wieliczka salt mine — this avoids an additional train or bus transfer from the capital; Kraków and Tatra region tours can be booked directly from the city once you land.

From the Polish side, the new route gives Kraków residents direct access to Abu Dhabi as a connecting hub to destinations that remain underserved from Warsaw and other Central European airports.

Booking and Seasonal Note

Flights operate until 5 September 2026, so travellers planning an autumn visit should note that the seasonal service will not operate beyond that date. Tickets are available at etihad.com. For a complete view of all airlines serving Poland and how to find the best fares, our flights to Poland guide lists the main carriers by region, and our June in Poland page covers what to expect during peak summer travel.