For those who enjoy the WhaleJet – the Airbus A380 – there is good news from Etihad Airways, who are reactivating the type to its fleet.
Etihad Airbus A380-800 on Final Approach to London Heathrow – Image, Economy Class and Beyond
A total of four will operate between Abu Dhabi and London, with the first to be reintroduced from summer 2023.
The move follows a surge in demand for air travel across the airline’s network and customer feedback for the return of one of the most remarkable commercial flying experiences in the sky.
In turn, the capacity freed up will allow for other parts of the Etihad network to grow, allowing for increased frequencies on existing routes and the launch of new destinations.
Etihad operates their A380s in a four-class configuration, including 9 First Apartments, 70 Business Studios and 405 Economy Smart Seats. This includes 80 Economy Space seats with a seat pitch of up to 36 inches.
There is also The Lobby, which is available to guests in First and Business class. This is a serviced lounge and bar area located between the two cabins, featuring leather sofas, refreshments and a large TV with a USB connection.
And some A320s? Why not?
As well as four Etihad A380 aircraft being reactivated, five Airbus A320 narrow-body aircraft will also be reactivated to give regional capacity to the Etihad network.
In Quotes
His Excellency Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman, Etihad Aviation Group, said:
“It is wonderful to announce the return of this splendid aircraft. The A380’s reintroduction provides a further boost to Etihad’s capacity into the key UK market, with a knock-on effect for the wider GCC and Indian subcontinent that will bring more visitors to the city of Abu Dhabi.”
Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Airways, said:
“We know this will be welcomed by our guests who love Etihad’s incredible A380 and its award-winning cabins. We have decided the time is right to return some of our A380s into the fleet to satisfy the demand which has made them financially viable once more. We look forward to welcoming our guests again on board this remarkable aircraft.”
Work to go
With a Summer 2023 reintroduction, there is going to be a lot of work, with the airline having to pull the aircraft out of storage and prepare to fly the type again. This includes the recruitment and training of A380 teams, including pilots, cabin crew and technical ground staff.
But for passengers, it will be a welcome sight to see the WhaleJet return, in terms of passenger experience, as well as the capacity that the A380 brings, with the possibility to allow Etihad to deploy extra aircraft elsewhere.
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