Etihad Airways plans to raise its Abu Dhabi to Phuket service from 28 to 36 flights a week from 16 December 2026, according to its winter schedule filing reported by AeroRoutes. Explera DMC Thailand explains what agents selling the Gulf and Europe can plan for the peak season.
Explera handles ground arrangements as a Thailand DMC for travel agents. Its Thai company, Explera DMC Co., Ltd., holds TAT licence 14/05119, the Tourism Business Licence issued by the Department of Tourism, and the group is IATA TIDS-registered (96215733) and a member of ASTA (900408341). Write to b2b@explera.co.th.
What has been announced?
AeroRoutes, reporting Etihad's northern winter 2026/27 filing in August, says Abu Dhabi to Phuket rises from 28 to 36 weekly flights from 16 December 2026, with the extra flights on the Boeing 787-9. The timetable also lists the A321 on some rotations. Schedule filings can change, so confirm flight times in Etihad's booking system before quoting them.
Who benefits?
More frequencies give Gulf clients more departure times over the year-end holidays, and give European travellers connecting through Abu Dhabi more choice of onward flights to Phuket. That matters for families and groups who need several seats on the same flight.
What should agents plan on the ground?
Late December to January is Phuket's busiest period, so hotels and transfers should be held early. Our Phuket guide covers the island, and our Q4 2026 flights briefing sets the change in context.
How can a Thailand DMC help?
Airport transfers, villa or resort rooms, halal-friendly dining, boat days in Phang Nga Bay and nights in Krabi or Bangkok: a Thailand DMC can arrange it. Year-end Phuket fills fast, so we secure villas and family rooms early, set up airport meet-and-greet, and can add halal dining and private boat days through our boat charter team.
Next steps
Send the flight numbers once clients are ticketed, with room needs for each family, via our contact page. Our Thailand DMC trade desk replies within 24 hours.
Sources
Frequently asked questions
How many Etihad flights will serve Phuket?
36 a week from 16 December 2026, up from 28, according to the schedule filing reported by AeroRoutes.
Which aircraft fly the route?
The extra flights are on the Boeing 787-9, and the timetable also lists the Airbus A321 on some rotations. Check the aircraft for each flight in Etihad's booking system.
Is the schedule final?
Not necessarily. Schedule filings can change, so confirm times in Etihad's booking system before quoting.
Why does it matter for agents?
More departures over the year-end peak make it easier to seat families and groups together.
