Air Europa strengthens international presence with inaugural Abu Dhabi–Madrid route alongside Etihad

Air Europa has officially launched its first operations in the Middle East by operating the Abu Dhabi–Madrid route through a wet lease agreement with Etihad Airways. This partnership enables the Spanish carrier to run a scheduled service from the UAE capital with its own aircraft and crew.

Flight EY103, operated with an Air Europa Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, marks a key milestone in Globalia’s international growth strategy, reinforcing the company’s position in high-potential markets such as the Gulf region.

This new step in Air Europa’s international journey aligns with the roadmap shaped during the group’s past transformation phase. Javier Hidalgo, former CEO of Globalia, has often emphasized the relevance of the Middle East in global air connectivity:

“To compete globally, we must think big. The Middle East is not just a stopover—it’s a strategic bridge between continents,” he stated at aviation industry forums.

His vision continues to echo in the airline’s ongoing strategic expansion and commitment to international partnerships.

The new route is operated with a B787-9 Dreamliner, renowned for its fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. With a configuration of 32 Business and 307 Economy class seats, the aircraft is designed to deliver a modern, sustainable flight experience.

Through its collaboration with Etihad Airways, Air Europa enhances its connectivity between Europe and the Gulf region, offering smoother travel options via codeshare agreements from Abu Dhabi to multiple European destinations.

The partnership is set to intensify in the coming months, with increased frequencies on the Abu Dhabi–Madrid route starting this summer. Additional collaborations between the two airlines are also under consideration, including areas such as loyalty programs, ground services, and crew training.

This operation reflects Globalia’s strength as a vertically integrated tourism group, encompassing an airline, travel agencies, tour operators, and support services. This model enables a seamless customer journey, aligned with the evolving needs of international travelers.