Tag Archives: Etihad

Etihad Airways achieved another key milestone in pilot training and flight operations. After successfully obtaining rigorous regulatory approvals and completing thorough pilot training, Etihad has achieved the qualification for its pilots to seamlessly operate both Airbus A350 and A380 aircraft interchangeably. This milestone positions Etihad as one of the pioneering airlines globally to attain such versatility in its pilot capabilities. Airline pilots are typically restricted to flying only one aircraft type. However, under certain conditions such as high similarity of flight deck, pilot procedures, and the implementation of special training, pilots may be enabled to operate two similar aircraft types through a dedicated programme approved by the aircraft manufacturer and the Civil Aviation Authority, known as ‘Mixed Fleet Flying’ or ‘MFF’. Mohammad Al Bulooki, Chief Operating Officer at Etihad Airways said: “Etihad Airways is proud to be the one of the very first airlines to qualify its pilots to fly both the Airbus A350 and A380. “This achievement will enhance the resilience and flexibility of the airline’s network and is testament to our commitment to continuously push the boundaries of efficiency, innovation, and customer satisfaction, and at all times ensuring safety is Etihad’s number one priority.” Over the past decade, Etihad has obtained similar approvals to qualify its Airbus pilots to interchangeably fly the A320 and A330 types, A330 and A340 types, and its Boeing pilots to fly the 777 and 787 types, setting new standards for fleet commonality. Building on this legacy, the latest approval to fly both the Airbus A350 and A380 will further enhance the efficiency and flexibility of Etihad’s widebody network.

Etihad Airways published its preliminary traffic statistics for January 2024 where the carrier welcomed more than 1.4 million guests onboard and saw its load factor average out at 86.04 per cent across the month. “In January 2024 we saw a 35 per cent year-on-year growth in customer numbers and were flying to five more destinations than the same period in 2023, making us one of the fastest growing airlines in the world,” said Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways. “We are meeting customer demand by adding more flights to key destinations, and Etihad is now offering almost 27% per cent more weekly departures for Summer 24 compared to last summer. “We began the year by launching daily flights from Abu Dhabi (AUH) to Kozhikode (CCJ) and Thiruvananthapuram (TRV) in the Kerala region of India taking our total number of Indian gateways to 10. “We are proud to have welcomed 1.4 million guests to our new home, Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport, and we eagerly anticipate introducing more of the world to both the new airport and the onboard Etihad experience throughout 2024, as our network and frequencies continue to expand.”

Etihad Airways is celebrating the renaming of its home airport to Zayed International Airport today. The naming of the airport follows the opening of Terminal A in November 2023, which is the airline’s new state-of-the-art home terminal. Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, Etihad Airways, said: “We take immense pride in our home, Abu Dhabi, which is the perfect hub from which to explore the world. We’re forever grateful to the vision of the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and proudly join in these celebrations as our home airport is renamed in his honour.” To celebrate the historic occasion, Etihad Airways has launched a special offer for guests departing from Abu Dhabi to select destinations. The limited time offer is available between 9 and 14 February 2024 for guests travelling between 19 February and 15 June 2024. Guests traveling to Bangkok can book special fares starting at AED 2,490 in Economy class and AED 7,990 in Etihad’s award-winning Business class. While guests can say ‘konnichiwa’ when they jet off to Osaka, from AED 4,490 and AED 14,990 in Economy and Business respectively. Etihad will launch flights to its new destination Boston, from 31 March, meaning guests can be amongst the first to fly to the popular US city and enjoy its rich cultural vibes at fantastic sale fares starting from AED 3,490. Those wishing to tour Europe can book to Copenhagen, Munich, and Lisbon with fares starting at AED 2,490 in Economy and AED 11,990 in Business. Over the celebratory weekend, guests will be warmly welcomed at Zayed International Airport, with gifts, special activities and live entertainment. The Terminal provides dedicated check-in desks for Etihad’s Economy guests …

Etihad Airways and Air Serbia have entered into a strategic bilateral codeshare, aimed at enhancing connectivity for customers of both airlines across a range of destinations. Under this partnership, Etihad’s customers gain convenient access to 12 Southeast European destinations through Air Serbia’s Belgrade hub, with nine destinations being new to Etihad’s extended network. The codeshare arrangement simplifies the travel experience for guests, allowing them to make a single booking and undergo a seamless check-in process, along with the added convenience of having their baggage effortlessly transferred to their final destination. Air Serbia’s network becomes easily accessible to Etihad’s customers, who can connect to it from Etihad’s gateways in Athens, Milan, Rome, and Vienna. Jurriaan Stelder, VP Alliances and Industry Affairs at Etihad, said: “This partnership further expands our codeshare network and provides our guests with convenient access to 12 of Air Serbia’s leisure and business destinations, including Belgrade, Bucharest, Budapest, Thessaloniki, Tirana, Skopje and Sofia. “We also look forward to warmly welcoming Air Serbia customers travelling from Europe to Abu Dhabi, where they will have the opportunity to explore the inviting hospitality and rich culture of our home, including the stunning beaches, world-class cultural landmarks and theme parks, and the serene desert landscapes.” Boško Rupić, Air Serbia General Manager of Commercial and Strategy, said: “By joining forces with Etihad we expand the reach of our services, offering our passengers a wider array of destinations and connectivity options. “This translates into more choices, flexibility, and convenience for those who choose Air Serbia for their journeys. Passengers will now enjoy the ease of booking connecting flights and checking in once for their entire journey.” Etihad Guest is the loyalty programme for both …

Etihad Airways is meeting customer demand by adding more flights to key destinations across the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent. The latest increase means the airline now offers almost 27% per cent more weekly departures than last summer. The airline is increasing flights to Jeddah and Riyadh in Saudi Arabia, Amman in Jordan, Beirut in Lebanon, as well as Colombo in Sri Lanka, and Kolkata and Bangalore in India. The enhancements are part of Etihad’s ambitious expansion of flights and frequencies to further boost Abu Dhabi’s global reach offering more flexible travel options for its guests. Etihad’s Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer Arik De said: “These latest flight increases aligned with our seamless and practical connections at Abu Dhabi and our growing global network offer our guests more opportunities to fly where they want to at a time that suits them. “It also makes it easier to enjoy a fantastic visit or stopover in Abu Dhabi as an integral part of their journey.” Destinations Change Total Frequency Start Date Jeddah +7 per week 28 per week 15 March 2024 Riyadh +7 per week 28 per week 15 March 2024 Amman +4 per week 11 per week 15 June 2024 Beirut +2 per week 7 per week 15 June 2024 Colombo +4 per week 17 per week 15 June 2024 Kolkata +1 per week 8 per week 15 June 2024 Bangalore +3 per week 17 per week 15 June 2024 Already announced Kozhikode New route 7 per week 1 January 2024 Thiruvananthapuram New route 7 per week 1 January 2024 Boston New route 4 per week 31 March 2024 Nairobi New route 7 per week 1 May 2024 Colombo +3 …

Etihad Airways and Maldivian announced a strategic bilateral interline partnership, unlocking access to 16 dream holiday destinations in the Maldives beyond the main island of Malé. The agreement between Etihad and Maldivian, the national airline of the Maldives, means guests can now seamlessly navigate across the Indian Ocean archipelago, enjoying the combined services and networks of both carriers on a single ticket. Etihad’s Chief Revenue Officer, Arik De said: “This interline will elevate the overall customer experience across the entire journey. Guests bound for the Maldives will enjoy the privilege of arriving at their popular holiday destinations with greater ease. Facilitated by smooth connections from Malé, Etihad customers can easily transition to Maldivian’s services, reaching a wide range of domestic destinations to begin their idyllic island retreat.” Maldivian’s General Manager Commercial, Ibrahim Hamdhan Mohamed said: “In an effort to expand Maldivian’s reach globally, this interline partnership with Etihad Airways will open exciting opportunities for our valued customers to connect and travel seamlessly within our strong and growing route network of destinations across the Maldives.” Etihad customers can access destinations on Maldivian’s network, which serves many popular islands, via Velana International Airport, Malé, including: Dharavandhoo Island (DRV), Faresmathoda Airport (FMT), Funadhoo Airport (FND), Fuvahmulak Island Airport (FVM), Gan Island Airport (GAN), Kooddoo Island (GKK), Hanimaadhoo Island Airport (HAQ), Kulhudhuffushi Airport (HDK), Hoarafushi Airport (HRF), Kaadedhdhoo Island Airport (KDM), Kadhdhoo Island (KDO), Madivaru Airport (LMV), Maafaru International Airport (NMF), Maavarulu Airport (RUL), Thimarafushi Airport (TMF), and Ifuru (IFU). Etihad is set to increase the frequency of its flights to Malé to connect with the Maldivian network from 10 to 14 a week starting on 1 January, 2024. The agreement also makes it …

Etihad Airways will start flying non-stop four times a week from 23 April 2024 to Bali. Conveniently timed to connect with flights from across Etihad’s growing global network, guests will arrive at the island’s Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) refreshed and ready to transfer to their resort. Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways, said: “We are thrilled to announce our first-ever flights to Bali. This exciting development follows closely on the heels of our dynamic Summer 24 schedule, reinforcing our dedication to expanding our network in tune with the needs of our customers so they can travel to their desired destinations in comfort and style. “Bali is the quintessential tropical escape, enchanting travellers with its verdant surroundings, vivid culture, and dreamlike beaches. From jade-green rice terraces to pristine white sands, the island balances exquisite beauty with deep tradition, offering a bewitching escape for those looking for tranquility and excitement alike. “We have timed the flights so guests can even enjoy a long weekend if they choose. We can’t wait to go there.” Visitors travelling from Europe and North America will also find the timings convenient for combining their trip with a stopover in Abu Dhabi to enjoy the legendary hospitality and remarkable attractions of the UAE’s capital. Etihad will operate flights to Bali four times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, flying its state-of-the-art Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, featuring the airline’s award-winning service, delivering a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience year-round.

Etihad Airways welcomed the latest addition to its expanding fleet as a new Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner landed at Abu Dhabi International Airport on Friday 13 October. After a thorough check by Etihad’s engineering team, the new arrival will go straight into service and is set to start flying guests from 15 October. “The arrival of our latest 787 Dreamliner underlines our passion to grow this year by enhancing the quality of our customer experience and the reach of our network,” said Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Airways. “This is all part of our vision 2030 supporting our growth as underlined by the new destinations to Osaka, Copenhagen and Dusseldorf we began operating two weeks ago.” This aircraft, and the three Dreamliner 787-9s following shortly, are up to 25 per cent more fuel efficient than many comparable aircraft of their size. The arrival comes exactly three years to the day since Etihad took delivery of its last Boeing 787-10 on 13 October, 2020.

Etihad Airways started flights to three key destinations Osaka, Copenhagen and Dusseldorf. Inaugural services to Dusseldorf, Germany (DUS) began on September 28, followed the next day by Copenhagen, Denmark (CPH) and then Osaka, Japan (KIX) on October 1. Meanwhile the airline unveiled increased frequencies to popular destinations Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (KUL) and Colombo, Sri Lanka (CMB). The flights are part of a package of new routes and increased frequencies designed to meet customer demand for more opportunities to visit Abu Dhabi and provide even more connectivity to Etihad’s growing global network. “The new flights are the next important steps as we enhance our network delivering greater connectivity for our guests,and serving their demand for more opportunities to visit Abu Dhabi,” said Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways. “We are helping accelerate economic growth for the city by providing more travel options and seamless connections, ensuring it’s easier for guests to visit Abu Dhabi either as a destination, or as part of a stopover as they explore our growing global network.” Etihad has already announced the launch of nine new destinations this year, including Malaga, Mykonos, Lisbon, Kolkata, St Petersburg, Dusseldorf, Copenhagen, Osaka, and Boston. In addition, the airline recently announced new routes to the Indian Subcontinent, Kozhikode and Thiruvananthapuram, to be launched in January 2024. To complement these developments, Etihad has made several recent network changes and frequency adds to enhance travel options and connectivity. Highlights include: Improved Departure Times: Enhanced passenger convenience with adjusted departure times for European and Asian destinations. Expanded Frequencies: Increased regularity to Chennai (MAA), Colombo (CMB) Islamabad (ISB), Kochi (COK), Kuala Lumpur (KUL), Madrid (MAD), Milan (MXP), Munich (MUC), Rome (FCO), and Phuket …

Etihad announced the launch of nine new destinations this year, including Malaga, Mykonos, Lisbon, Kolkata, St Petersburg, Dusseldorf, Copenhagen, Osaka, and Boston. Etihad Airways has unveiled an ambitious network overhaul, positioning the airline for sustainable expansion while improving Abu Dhabi’s links to global markets. The new network is designed to support Abu Dhabi visitor growth and provide travellers with more options by introducing new destinations, ramping up capacity to sought-after international destinations, providing opportunities for travellers to explore and experience diverse cultures, while bringing more visitors directly to Abu Dhabi. Provide more options: Provide passengers with enhanced travel flexibility with multiple and more convenient departure times, ensuring seamless and stress-free journeys. Increase frequencies to key international markets: To support Abu Dhabi’s economic and tourism growth, Etihad is increasing flight frequencies to essential international destinations, fostering improved accessibility and strengthening the emirate’s position as a hub for global travellers. The updated schedules have been timed for departures from Abu Dhabi at 2 pm, ensuring travelers and visitors can thoroughly experience Abu Dhabi’s hotels and attractions until their checkout time. This approach enhances the overall travel experience while maximising the enjoyment of Abu Dhabi’s offerings. “As we embark on Etihad’s next chapter targeting growth, our ambitious network and improved connectivity allows us to better serve Abu Dhabi and our valued guests, forming the basis of our future expansion while providing flexibility and freedom to adapt to new opportunities and markets,” said Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways. “By offering more travel options and seamless connections, we aim to attract an increasing number of visitors to Abu Dhabi, propelling economic growth for the city while enriching the travel experience for our passengers.” …