Etihad’s A380 Featuring “The Residence” Returns to Service

Etihad Airways’ A380 has returned to the skies. The impressive aircraft departed Abu Dhabi on 25 July at 02:05 AM and landed at London Heathrow at 06:45 AM local time. The first of Etihad’s four Airbus A380 aircraft returning to service treated passengers on board to A380-themed souvenirs to celebrate the occasion.

On board, Passengers in Economy Class enter a dedicated welcome area and the cabin features 68 Economy Space seats offering an additional 4 inches in leg room, plus 337 Economy Smart seats that come with Etihad’s signature fixed-wing headrest and large pillows for added comfort.

The upper deck features 70 Business Studios with a serene atmosphere. In addition, on the upper deck, passengers have access to The Lobby, a serviced lounge and bar area located between the First and Business cabins, and will benefit from Etihad’s unique partnership with Armani/Casa, delivering an elevated Business experience.

The nine First Apartments on board all have a private living space, wide leather lounge chairs and separate ottomans which convert into 80″ lie-flat beds. First Class guests can freshen up with personal vanity units, as well as take advantage of the First class shower room. The Apartments also offer special amenities and designer tableware.

Also on board is Etihad’s impressive The Residence suite. According to the carrier, it is the world’s only three-room suite in the sky and can be booked for up to two guests. The suite features a private living room, bedroom and ensuite bathroom with a shower. Meals will be prepared from an à la carte menu and served on designer tableware in the private living room. Gourmet cuisine as well as lighter refreshments are served, including champagne and caviar and The Residence Signature High Tea.

Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Airways commented: “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.

“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.”