Etihad Airways, the official partner of the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, has operated 10 flights to transport the protected Formula 1 ‘biosphere’ from Manama, Bahrain to Abu Dhabi, UAE.
The Formula 1 management, teams, drivers and crew travelled to Abu Dhabi International Airport on Monday (December 7) and were transferred to Yas Marina Circuit ahead of this season’s F1 finale.
The airline operated a fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners, Airbus A320s and A321s for the mission, with current team champion Mercedes flying on Etihad’s unique Dreamliner featuring an F1-themed livery.
“Working with our partners at Yas Marina Circuit, bringing the Formula 1 to Abu Dhabi is always an incredibly exciting experience. This year, it is an opportunity for Etihad to showcase its ‘Wellness’ credentials which are leading the way in the aviation industry’s response to COVID-19,” said Terry Daly, Executive Director Guest Experience, Brand and Marketing, Etihad Aviation Group.
“The Formula 1 protected ‘biosphere’ ensures that safety and wellness is guaranteed, and Etihad’s role in this operation was meticulously planned. Etihad transported more than 1,200 guests in order to move the Formula 1 from our neighbour Bahrain to Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi. Guests on board were looked after by our Wellness Ambassadors who are available on every Etihad flight to ensure the highest safety and wellbeing standards.”
While onboard, the drivers were treated to personalised good luck video messages from F1 fans, including many of the airline’s staff and crew. An F1-themed menu was served and drivers were given personalised snoods, Etihad’s unique microbebarrier™ face protection.
The Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will take place on Sunday 13 December with practice sessions beginning on December 11 on the iconic F1 track at Yas Marina Circuit.
