The past weekend marked a milestone for Etihad Airways as the airline proudly welcomed three new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners to its home base at Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport. These state-of-the-art aircraft are the latest additions to Etihad’s rapidly growing fleet, signaling a bright future for the UAE’s national airline as it strides towards its ambitious goal of operating over 160 aircraft to 125 destinations by 2030.
Expanding Horizons with New Destinations
The arrival of these Dreamliners couldn’t be more timely for Etihad Airways. Antonoaldo Neves, the CEO, expressed excitement about the new aircraft enhancing the airline’s network expansion strategy. Etihad is on a mission to connect the world to Abu Dhabi, showcasing the UAE’s capital as a premier destination or a delightful stopover choice. Starting this month, the 787-9s will be pivotal in launching new routes and increasing flight frequencies to key markets.
Boston will soon join Etihad’s US destinations on March 31, marking the airline’s fourth gateway in the United States. The expansion doesn’t stop there, with Nairobi and Bali also being added to the network, alongside seasonal flights to European gems like Nice, Malaga, Mykonos, and Santorini. This growth follows the integration of new routes to Osaka, Copenhagen, Dusseldorf, and cities within India’s Kerala region, such as Kozhikode and Thiruvananthapuram, enhancing Etihad’s global footprint.
A Leap in Eco-Friendly and Comfortable Travel
Etihad’s 787-9 Dreamliners represent a leap towards more sustainable aviation. Boasting up to 25% more fuel efficiency compared to similar-sized aircraft, these 787-9 Dreamliners contribute significantly to Etihad’s environmental commitments. With a total of 43 Dreamliners now in operation, Etihad underscores its dedication to combining growth with responsibility.
Passengers flying on the new 787 Dreamliners are in for a treat. The aircraft feature a refreshed cabin interior, offering unparalleled comfort and privacy. Business travelers can enjoy the luxury of the airline’s new Business Suites, featuring the world’s first Elements seat by Collins on a Boeing 787. These suites offer direct aisle access, convert into a fully lie-flat bed, and come equipped with a 17.3” 4K TV screen, Bluetooth headphone pairing, and more. Economy class passengers haven’t been overlooked, with the latest seats providing additional legroom and a more spacious feel, alongside cutting-edge in-flight entertainment and high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity.
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