Etihad Airways (Etihad) has unveiled its two new flagship aircraft in Abu Dhabi – the Airbus A380 and Boeing 787.
A group of 200 media were treated to the first public viewing of Etihad’s new “Facets of Abu Dhabi” livery, as well as the super luxurious three-room suite product on the A380, “Residence by Etihad”.
Etihad Airways welcomes the A380 and B787
“As we have done so many times in our short history, we are reshaping the landscape of modern air travel in our own way,” said James Hogan, the Gulf carrier’s president and chief executive.
“With the launch of these aircraft, we usher in a new era of unparalleled luxury, comfort and service. These innovations represent our vision for the future.”
Both the A380 and B787 will now continue test operations before commencing commercial flights. The superjumbo is currently slated to operate daily to London Heathrow from 27 December, while the Dreamliner will be deployed to Dusseldorf from 1 February 2015.
Runway success – unveil of the new Etihad Airways uniform
The unveiling ceremony in Abu Dhabi was also a means for Etihad to reveal a new uniform design – the first major re-launch since the carrier’s formation in 2003.
Created by Italian designer Ettore Bilotta, the new uniform merges elements of old world haute couture from 1960s Paris and Rome, with the more contemporary fashions found on the catwalks of London, New York, Milan and Tokyo.
New era, new uniform design
Aubrey Tiedt, vice president guest services at Etihad Airways said: “This is not just a uniform. This is pret-a-porter concept – a future lifestyle statement and homage to the golden age of glamorous flight. It is about bringing back classic elegance, allure and richness to our men and women in a style which will become their signature look. No matter where you are in the world, you will know this is Etihad.”
Male cabin crew uniform
The new uniforms will be introduced system-wide from 27 December, coinciding with the airline’s A380 inaugural flight launch to London.
Female cabin crew design
Ettore Bilotta said: “Since the launch of Etihad in 2003, I have come to know the airline, its teams and management, very intimately, and have developed a style which has evolved as the airline has grown. For me it has essentially been about dressing a brand and an ethos.”
For more information, visit etihad.com
Clement Huang
