Etihad Airways Becomes First Airline to Fly from Frankfurt Airport's New Terminal 3

Etihad Airways makes aviation history as the first airline to take off from Frankfurt Airport's newly opened Terminal 3, marking a new era of comfort and connectivity for global travellers.

Frankfurt Airport has officially opened a new chapter in European aviation. Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates, has become the first airline in the world to operate a departure from Frankfurt Airport's newly opened Terminal 3, a milestone moment that signals a brighter, more comfortable future for millions of travellers passing through one of Europe's busiest international gateways

The inaugural departure, flight EY122 bound for Abu Dhabi, took off on the morning of 23rd April 2026, with Etihad's Chief Operations and Guest Officer, Captain Majed Al Marzouqi, personally at the controls. Before the flight departed, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at the gate, attended by senior representatives from both Etihad Airways and Fraport AG, the company that operates Frankfurt Airport — a fitting celebration of a partnership that has grown stronger over many years.

In a touching moment that captured the spirit of the occasion, Captain Majed surprised a travelling couple with a Business Class upgrade, turning what was already a special day into an unforgettable one for passengers on board.

Etihad has been flying between Abu Dhabi and Frankfurt since 2005, and that long-standing relationship made it all the more fitting that the airline was chosen to lead operations at the new terminal. Captain Majed reflected on the significance of the occasion, saying the new terminal fundamentally changes the experience for everyone passing through it, and that Etihad was proud to be the first airline to depart from it.

Frankfurt Airport's leadership equally acknowledged the importance of the moment, describing Etihad as one of the airline's most valued and longstanding European network partners.

Terminal 3 has been built with the modern traveller firmly in mind. The design moves away from the typically crowded and clinical feel of many busy airport terminals, instead offering open, naturally lit spaces that feel welcoming from the moment you step inside.

Check-in and security areas are spacious and bright, with large floor-to-ceiling windows allowing plenty of natural light to flow through. At the centre of the terminal sits a large marketplace area that brings together dining options, shops, and lounge seating — all with direct views of the airfield. It is the kind of environment that makes the waiting time before a flight genuinely enjoyable rather than something to simply endure.

Families travelling with young children will find dedicated play areas, while those travelling for business can settle into quiet workstations to get work done before boarding. A new Skyline rail link also connects Terminal 3 to the rest of the airport, making transfers between terminals faster and far more straightforward for connecting passengers.​​​​​​​

The opening of Terminal 3 is part of Frankfurt Airport's broader ambition to grow its capacity and keep pace with rising international travel demand. More airlines are expected to move into the terminal in the coming months, bringing greater choice and improved services for passengers.

For UK travellers considering Abu Dhabi as a destination — whether for a city break, a luxury beach holiday, or as a connecting hub to further destinations — Etihad's strengthened presence at Frankfurt, combined with the improved facilities of Terminal 3, makes this an exciting development worth keeping an eye on.

At Crystal Travel, we keep a close watch on the latest developments in global aviation so you don't have to. If you are planning a trip and would like expert advice on routes, airlines, or destinations, our team is always on hand to help you travel smarter.