The inaugural flight of Ukraine International Airlines’ new direct service landed at Abu Dhabi International Airport from the Ukrainian capital Kiev.

The aircraft was greeted with a Water Canon Salute as the presentation flight from Kiev Borispol International Airport (KBP) arrived at Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH).

The new service using a Boeing 737 offers twice weekly flights between Kiev and Abu Dhabi. The flight takes an average of five and a half hours offering both business and economy class seating and tickets start from approximately Dh1,200 one way.

The service will support the growing business links between Ukraine and the UAE. Recently the Ukraine and UAE Business Council was established to facilitate trade and economic relations between the two nations, realising the scope of the commercial business opportunities available.

“The new route to Abu Dhabi has been eagerly anticipated by business customers wishing to take advantage of the convenient new direct service, as well as leisure travelers looking to Abu Dhabi for a unique tourism destination,” said president of Ukraine International Airlines, Yuri Miroshnikov.

“UIA's new route to Kiev expands the portfolio of European destinations serviced directly from Abu Dhabi International Airport, and consequently the range of destinations we offer to our community,” added Ahmed Al Haddabi, senior vice president of Abu Dhabi Airports Company’s Airport Operations.

“At Terminal 1, Ukraine International Airlines’ passengers will find the quick transfer times efficient and seamless to Etihad Airways and other airlines.”-TradeArabia News Service