Etihad Airways is widely considered to be one of the world’s leading airlines. The Middle East-based carrier has only been in operation for a short time, but the airline has made a significant impact on the commercial aviation industry.
Ready for takeoff? Let’s depart into the world of this ever-growing airline. In no particular order, here are 20 key facts about Etihad Airways, covering topics such as its history and current operations.
Etihad Airways Facts
1. When was Etihad Airways created?
As stated on the airline’s official website, Etihad Airways was established in July 2003 after a royal decree was issued by the late President of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Khalifa.
The late Sheikh Khalifa, the former ruler of Abu Dhabi, sought to create Etihad Airways as a way to establish a national airline for the city, thereby complementing Dubai’s already established Emirates airline.
2. Its inaugural flight took place that same year
Etihad Airways’ first commercial flight took the skies in November 2003, just four months after the airline’s inception.
The historic flight saw the carrier operate a service between Abu Dhabi and Beirut. Notably, the airline operated a ceremonial service a week prior to Al Ain – a city in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.
3. Etihad Airways is fully owned by one entity
The airline is currently owned by the Etihad Aviation Group.
The Etihad Aviation Group also owns Etihad Guest, Etihad Cargo, Etihad Engineering, Etihad Aviation Training, Etihad Holidays, and Etihad Secure Logistics.
4. The airline is one of the flag carriers of the UAE
Etihad Airways and Dubai-based Emirates both serve as the national flag carriers of the United Arab Emirates.
5. Etihad is not a part of any airline alliance
Currently, Etihad Airways has not become a member of any airline alliance. Similarly, Emirates, another UAE airline, has also chosen not to join an alliance.
Aviation website Simple Flying looked further into the details, quoting Tim Clarke, the President of Emirates, who said that such alliances were “the old way” of doing things. Meanwhile, Etihad has instead opted to invest in airlines from “strategically important” locations.
6. The airline operates out of Abu Dhabi
Etihad Airways operates from Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi, which opened in January 1982.
It is currently the second busiest airport in the UAE, following Dubai International Airport.
7. How many aircraft are in Etihad Airways’ fleet?
According to Airfleets, Etihad Airways currently has 97 active aircraft in its fleet.
The carrier’s fleet includes the Airbus A320-200, Airbus A321neo, Airbus A321-200, Airbus A350-1000, Airbus A380, Boeing 777-300, Boeing 777-Freighter, Boeing 787-10, and Boeing 787-9.
8. The carrier serves over 70 destinations
Etihad Airways operates services to a plethora of destinations around the globe.
The airline serves locations in Asia, Africa, Europe, North America, Oceania, and South America.
9. The airline has a frequent flyer program
Etihad Guest is the name of Etihad Airways’ loyalty program.
The program enables members to accumulate miles and achieve tier status with the airline.
10. Etihad Airways has numerous codeshare agreements
According to the airline’s website, Etihad Airways has codeshare agreements in place with airlines such as Air France, ANA, Avianca, Garuda Indonesia, Gulf Air, KLM, Korean Air, Lufthansa, and Turkish Airlines.
These agreements allow carriers to sell tickets for services operated by other airlines under their own flight numbers.
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11. The carrier has a subsidiary airline
Etihad Airways’ subsidiary airline is called Air Arabia Abu Dhabi.
The low-cost carrier was created in October 2019 and is based at Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi.
12. Etihad’s Airbus A380 features a luxurious “First Apartment”
Etihad Airways’ Airbus A380 aircraft is equipped with a luxurious “First Apartment,” offering passengers a spacious and private experience with features such as a fully-flat bed and gourmet dining.
13. The Airbus A380 also boasts “The Residence”
Additionally, Etihad Airways’ Airbus A380 also features “The Residence,” described by the airline as a luxurious three-room suite in the sky.
“The Residence” features an ensuite shower room, a separate living area, and a double bed.
14. The Boeing 787-9 features the “First Suite”
Meanwhile, the airline’s Boeing 787-9 offers the “First Suite,” which offers an ultra-luxurious and private travel experience, complete with high-end amenities and personalized service.
15. Etihad Airways has won numerous awards
Over the years, Etihad Airways has won some prestigious awards.
At the 30th World Travel Awards in 2023, the airline was recognized for the fifth consecutive year as the Middle East’s Leading Cabin Crew, while also receiving accolades for the region’s Best Business Class, Inflight Entertainment, Customer Experience, and First Class Lounge and Spa.
16. Etihad once provided onboard chefs
The airline previously provided an inflight chef for its First customers.
However, the scheme was dropped in 2020. According to the carrier, the decision was part of a cost-cutting measure.
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17. The airline is a key sponsor of various global sports teams and events
According to the airline’s official website, Etihad Airways currently sponsors the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, English Premier League champions Manchester City, A-League team Melbourne City Football Club, MLS side New York City Football Club, and the Chennai Super Kings cricket team.
Additionally, the airline sponsors Manchester City’s stadium, which is known as the Etihad Stadium.
18. Etihad employs staff from all over the world
In January 2023, Etihad Airways announced a job opening for individuals interested in joining its cabin crew team.
19. The carrier’s in-flight entertainment system is called “E-BOX”
Etihad Airways’ in-flight entertainment system, known as “E-BOX,” provides passengers with a diverse selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games to enjoy during their journey.
20. Etihad Airways has not been involved in any fatal accidents
Since its inception in 2003, Etihad Airways has upheld an impeccable safety record, with no fatalities or hull losses reported in its commercial operations.
The airline ultimately has one of the best safety records in the world.
This article was updated on October 9, 2024.
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