The UAE flag carrier, Etihad Airways, has announced the resumption of its Airbus A380 double-decker service to New York in time for the busy summer travel season and corporate travel market. One of Etihad's two daily flights to New York will be serviced by the A380, while the other will be operated by a Boeing 787-9.
The A380 features Etihad's iconic Residence—a three-room suite in the sky, Business class, and Economy seats.
After a celebratory send-off in Abu Dhabi, Etihad pilots waved the US and UAE flags from the cockpit as the super-jumbo arrived on its stand in New York.
Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways, stated, "Introducing the A380 to the popular New York route aligns with our strategy to meet increasing customer demand and expand our network."
Neves added, "It comes just three weeks after we launched our new route to Boston, our fourth US gateway, underlining our commitment to serving and growing the North American market. He continued, “This commitment is crucial for all our travellers, not least our corporate clients who rely on us for business travel. We have timed our A380 services so customers arrive in New York or Abu Dhabi in time to make good use of the business day or for their onward connections.”
The addition of the A380 boosts Etihad's capacity in the US market, providing connections to the broader Middle East and the Indian subcontinent, the airline said. The increase in capacity will also make it easier to attract more visitors to Abu Dhabi.
Following the pandemic in 2020, the airline stopped its A380 services, grounding all ten super-jumbo aircraft in its fleet. A total of four of Etihad's A380s are now back in service.
On-Boarding Experience - The Provided Luxury of A380
Every guest on Etihad's A380 has a unique and elevated experience. For those in the Economy, a dedicated welcome area sets the tone. The cabin boasts 68 extra legroom seats with an additional 4 inches of space and 337 Economy Smart seats featuring Etihad's signature fixed-wing headrests and oversized pillows for maximum comfort.
The Business Studios provide an exclusive haven with 70 private spaces on the upper deck, ensuring a stress-free journey. The upper deck also houses The Lobby, a serviced lounge and bar between the First and Business cabins. Collaborating with Armani/Casa, Etihad brings sophistication to the Business experience by offering premium ceramics, glassware, cutlery, and fabrics.
Comprehensive Wi-Fi connection and extra comfort and convenience make it easy for business travellers to remain productive and in touch.
First Apartments take luxury to new heights with nine private spaces, each equipped with designer tableware, a spacious leather lounge chair, and a separate ottoman that transforms into an 80" lie-flat bed. First-class guests can enjoy personal vanity units and access the exclusive First-class shower room.
The Residence - The world's first suit in the sky
At the top of luxury, with the world's only three-room suite in the sky - Residence. The Residence can accommodate at least two people, taking advantage of a private living room, bedroom, and ensuite bathroom, complete with a shower at 40,000 feet. A dedicated team of Etihad cabin crew ensures unparalleled service.
Guests in The Residence can indulge in a culinary journey with an à la carte menu, served on designer tableware in the private living room, or even for breakfast in bed. From gourmet cuisine to champagne and caviar, The Residence Signature High Tea offers a range of lavish options.
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