Etihad Airways announced that it will begin flying its double-decker, the Airbus A380 from Abu Dhabi to New York JFK for the summer of 2024.
The A380 will operate on one of the two daily Etihad flights to New York from April 2024. The introduction of the jumbo jet will significantly expand capacity for the UAE’s flag carrier.
The other daily flight will be operated by a 787-9 featuring First, Business and Economy cabins.
The US route becomes the second destination after London to enjoy the A380 experience since Etihad returned its superjumbo to the skies.
Antonoaldo Neves, CEO, Etihad Airways, said: “We’re thrilled to start flying our A380 across the Atlantic, and we know our guests love the onboard experience. Whether they are flying in Economy, Business, First or the three-room suite in the sky, The Residence, they will enjoy elevated levels of service from our dedicated crew, and ensure they arrive in the city that never sleeps refreshed and relaxed.”
“Putting the A380 on the popular New York route makes sense as we satisfy customer demand for more capacity, further growing our expanding network. The fact that our new route to Boston, Etihad’s fourth US gateway, will open on March 31, three weeks before our A380 starts flying to New York, underlines our ambitious growth plans.”
Etihad expands capacity and features
The introduction of the A380 marks a significant enhancement to Etihad’s capacity in the crucial US market, connecting to the broader GCC and Indian subcontinent. It will further attract an increased number of visitors to sample the attractions of the vibrant city of Abu Dhabi, noted the airline in its statement.
The airline added that its A380 cabin boasts 68 extra legroom seats with an additional 4 inches of space, along with 337 Economy Smart seats featuring Etihad’s signature fixed-wing headrests and for maximum comfort.
The double decker houses the Business Studios on the upper level which has been designed to create 70 private spaces, ensuring a stress-free journey.
The upper deck also houses The Lobby, a serviced lounge between the First and Business cabins. The airline has collaborated with Armani/Casa, to enhance the Business experience, offering premium ceramics, glassware, cutlery, and fabrics.
First Class ‘Apartments’ are designed as luxurious travel coupes with nine private spaces, each equipped with designer tableware, a spacious leather lounge chair, and a separate ottoman that transforms into an 80 inch lie-flat bed. First-class guests can enjoy personal vanity units and access to the exclusive shower room, allowing them to reach their destination refreshed and recharged.
Etihad’s The Residence
Etihad Airways‘ A380 will feature The Residence, the world’s only three-room suite in the sky.
Accommodating up to two guests, The Residence features a private living room, bedroom, and ensuite bathroom, complete with a shower at 40,000 feet.
Guests in The Residence are provided with an à la carte menu, served in the private living room, or can even opt for breakfast in bed. The airline has introduced special offer prices starting from Dhs10,999($2,990), to upgrade from a First-class ticket for a truly unforgettable journey. This offer is available for purchase between November 29 to December 12 for Dhs10,999 for one person or Dhs14,999 for two, one-way. The available dates for are from April 22, 2024 (excluding 14 – 24 June, 2024).
Standard upgrade fare for The Residence while travelling between Abu Dhabi and New York is Dhs16,600 per person, one-way.
