THE TRIUMPHANT RETURN OF THE SUPERJUMBO: ETIHAD AIRWAYS COMMEMORATES THE RE-LAUNCH OF THEIR AIRBUS A380
We look inside the plane.
- The first of Etihad’s quartet of A380s graces the skies once again. On 25 July 2023, the superjumbo resumed operations on the highly frequented Abu Dhabi – London Heathrow route.
- This timely reinstatement of the A380 is a testament to Etihad’s commitment to superior onboard experiences, and coincides perfectly with the bustling summer travel season.
- Etihad’s A380 houses The Residence, a globally unique feature. This is the world’s only three-room suite in the sky, offering an unparalleled, luxury flying experience.
Celebrations as Etihad’s A380 Returns to the Skies
Etihad Airways, the award-winning national airline of the United Arab Emirates, celebrated the return to service of its Airbus A380 on a special inaugural commercial flight from Abu Dhabi to London Heathrow. The first of Etihad’s four Airbus A380s, departed Abu Dhabi at 0205 hrs and landed at London Heathrow at 0645 hrs local time on 25 July.
Special Etihad A380 Relaunch Mementos Onboard
Before the SuperJumbo A380’s highly anticipated return to the skies, key figures from Etihad, Abu Dhabi Airport, and the Department of Culture and Tourism convened in a ceremonial gathering to commemorate the event. Passengers on the inaugural flight were presented with A380-themed mementos as part of the celebratory proceedings, adding a touch of exclusivity to the occasion.
“We’re excited to once again welcome guests onboard Etihad’s A380s and step into a truly remarkable experience. Whether our guests are choosing to fly in Economy, Business, First or our three-room suite in the sky The Residence, this aircraft provides an elevated flying experience which we take extreme pride in,” Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Airways, says. “The aircraft adds much-needed capacity connecting Abu Dhabi with London Heathrow and allows us to build our network and increase frequencies across the network. With a surge in demand for travel over the summer, the return of our much-loved A380 comes at the perfect time.”
Inside Etihad’s A380 Plane
Etihad A380 Economy Class
Upon boarding, Economy guests are warmly welcomed in a specially designated area. The Economy cabin boasts 68 Economy Space seats, providing an extra 4 inches of legroom, while the 337 Economy Smart seats are outfitted with Etihad’s signature fixed-wing headrests and plush, large pillows, prioritizing passenger comfort.
Etihad A380 Business Studios
The upper deck of Etihad’s A380 is home to 70 Business Studios, designed to offer customers an unparalleled level of privacy and tranquility. Further enhancing the Business experience, Etihad’s collaboration with Armani/Casa manifests in the form of exquisite ceramics, glassware, cutlery, serving ware, premium textiles, and a memory foam mattress, promising a lavish in-flight experience.
This deck also houses The Lobby, a fully serviced lounge and bar nestled between the First and Business cabins.
Etihad A380 First Apartments
Nine First Apartments are available for guests seeking an elevated level of luxury. These private living spaces are equipped with premium amenities, designer tableware, a spacious leather lounge chair, and an ottoman that transforms into an 80″ lie-flat bed. First-class guests can enjoy personal vanity units within their Apartment and avail themselves of the exclusive First class shower room to rejuvenate mid-flight.
The Residence
Etihad’s The Residence, the only three-room suite in the sky, offers an unparalleled level of luxury and comfort. It caters for up to two guests, with a dedicated team of Etihad cabin crew ensuring premium service. The suite comprises a private living room, a plush bedroom, and an ensuite bathroom, allowing guests the unique experience of refreshing with a shower at an altitude of 40,000ft.
Guests are treated to a personalized dining experience, with meal options prepared à la carte from a meticulously curated menu. Served on designer tableware in the private living room, or as a sumptuous breakfast in bed, the offerings range from gourmet cuisine to lighter refreshments. The menu is enhanced by indulgent luxuries such as champagne, caviar, and the exclusive Residence Signature High Tea.
Booking for The Residence is now accessible on etihad.com. To reserve this unique travel experience, guests can select a First-class ticket and upgrade to The Residence for an additional cost starting from 2,500 USD per person, one way. The option to redeem Etihad Guest Miles towards this lavish journey is also available, providing guests the opportunity to treat themselves to an unforgettable experience.
Connecting London and Abu Dhabi
Etihad’s A380 aircraft will operate on the Abu Dhabi – London route on flights EY11 and EY12 from 25 July and on EY19 and EY20 from 1 August. Etihad’s A380s will connect people between the UK, the UAE and onwards across the Etihad network.
Etihad’s A380 service is available to book now on etihad.com or through travel agents.