Etihad Airways Cancels Flight ETD9735 from Abu Dhabi to Shanghai on October 21, 2025

Published on October 21, 2025

Etihad Airways has announced the cancellation of flight ETD9735, which was scheduled to depart from Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 2:35 PM local time. This cancellation has implications for passengers and the broader travel landscape, particularly for those in the UAE, China, and neighboring regions.

Flight Cancellation and Travel Disruption

Etihad Airways, one of the major carriers in the UAE, confirmed the cancellation of flight ETD9735, which was operated by a Boeing 777-200ER aircraft. This flight, which was meant to connect passengers from Abu Dhabi, UAE to Shanghai, China, is now one of several disruptions affecting regional air travel. Passengers who had planned to travel on this route are now facing potential delays, and many are left with limited options for rescheduling their flights.

This cancellation, announced just hours before the scheduled departure time, has left many passengers in a state of uncertainty. This disruption is a part of broader ongoing challenges in the global aviation sector, which has been affected by numerous factors, including air traffic management issues, unexpected operational disruptions, and the ongoing global recovery of the aviation industry after the pandemic. In this case, the cancellation has also been attributed to capacity and logistical challenges within the airline.

Affected Routes and Key Cities

The cancellation of flight ETD9735 specifically impacts travel between Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, and Shanghai, one of China’s most prominent international gateways. As a hub for business, tourism, and education, Shanghai is a key city for both outbound and inbound travel. For travelers within the UAE, this cancellation has a direct impact on those planning to visit Shanghai for work, tourism, or connecting flights to other global destinations.

Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) is one of the busiest airports in China and serves as a key connection point for passengers traveling to other parts of Asia and beyond. The airport is known for its extensive network of international flights and is a major hub for both leisure and business tourism in China. The disruption of this flight, which is a primary route for passengers traveling from the UAE to China, is expected to have wider implications for tourism and business travel, as many travelers will be forced to explore alternative travel options.

In addition to the flight from Abu Dhabi to Shanghai, there are other regional flights impacted by cancellations, including flights from Dubai and Doha to various destinations in China and South Asia. Travelers planning to attend events, business meetings, or family visits in Shanghai, and those with onward connections through the city, are expected to face considerable delays as they seek alternate travel arrangements.

Passenger Guidance and Compensation

For those whose travel plans have been affected by the cancellation of flight ETD9735, Etihad Airways has provided guidance on alternative arrangements. The airline has waived any fees associated with changing the date of their bookings and has made provisions for rebooking passengers on the next available flights to Shanghai or other nearby destinations.

Etihad Airways has also informed affected passengers that they may request a full refund for their tickets. Passengers are encouraged to reach out to the airline’s customer service or visit the airline’s website to make new travel arrangements. The airline has also offered a 5% discount on rebooked flights for those who wish to take alternative flights with Etihad or other partner airlines.

The situation is further complicated by the limited availability of direct flights between Abu Dhabi and Shanghai, especially during peak travel seasons. Passengers are advised to stay informed and flexible with their travel schedules to ensure minimal disruptions. For those who prefer to explore alternative routes, nearby connections via Qatar Airways, Emirates, or China Eastern Airlines may be available.

Impact on Local Tourism and Business

The disruption of this flight also carries implications for tourism and business sectors in both the UAE and China. Shanghai, as a global city, has long been a prime destination for business travelers, academics, and tourists. With its towering skyline, rich cultural offerings, and business opportunities, the city attracts millions of visitors each year. The cancellation of a major flight route between Abu Dhabi and Shanghai not only causes immediate disruptions for tourists but also affects local businesses in both regions.

In the UAE, particularly in Abu Dhabi, the tourism industry relies heavily on its international connectivity. The Emirate’s cultural institutions, such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi, as well as luxury tourism and business tourism, are key drivers of the local economy. Any disruptions in travel to and from the UAE can lead to reduced visitor numbers, which may impact hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and other businesses dependent on tourism.

Likewise, for Shanghai, which hosts a variety of international events, conferences, and exhibitions, the cancellation of flights to and from global hubs like Abu Dhabi reduces the city’s accessibility for international business travelers. Shanghai’s hospitality and tourism industries rely on a continuous influx of visitors, especially those traveling from the Middle East and other regions. The disruption may prompt travelers to look for alternate airports or carriers, reducing the potential economic benefit of visits.

Alternative Airlines and Routes

Passengers affected by the cancellation are encouraged to look for alternative flights with other major airlines operating in the region. Airlines such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, and China Eastern Airlines operate direct flights from the UAE and Qatar to Shanghai. These alternatives may provide quicker rebooking options and help mitigate the delays caused by the cancellation of Etihad Airways flight ETD9735.