The first commercial flight from Abu Dhabi International’s eagerly awaited new Terminal A was recently operated by Etihad Airways, the flag airline of the United Arab Emirates. Today at 14:35, Etihad aircraft EY224, which was headed from Abu Dhabi to New Delhi, departed from Terminal A. There were 359 passengers on board the airline’s Airbus A350-1000 during the flight.
The visitors who created history were greeted by Etihad and Abu Dhabi International Airport and experienced a smooth first-time check-in experience at Terminal A. All travelers, including those traveling in both Economy and Business classes, were given the exceptional chance to be the first visitors to the brand-new, three-story Etihad Lounges at Terminal A in honor of the occasion.
Following a tasting of a specially designed meal featuring festive fare at the Etihad Lounge, attendees proceeded to Gate C27, where celebration décor and a photo booth were ready to commemorate this momentous occasion.
With a ribbon-cutting ceremony that was seen by a distinguished group of guests, including board members of Etihad and Abu Dhabi Airport and aviation leaders, the ceremonial flight was formally started.
Frank McCrorie, Chief Operations Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports, Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Interim CEO, and Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad, were also in attendance. Both Frank and Antonoaldo made statements to formally greet the first customers of the airport.
“This is a pivotal and exciting moment in Etihad’s history,” stated Antonoaldo Neves, the company’s chief executive officer. We are excited for the next phase of our growth in our new house as we get ready to celebrate our 20th anniversary in November.
“We applaud the Abu Dhabi government’s ambition in building one of the most magnificent airports in the world. The terminal has a magnificent architectural design that enhances the travel experience for our customers and reflects the surrounding scenery.
“We look forward to welcoming even more passengers as we begin our transition to our new home and as we continue to grow and expand our fleet and network.”
The emirate as a whole, our partners at Etihad Airways, and Abu Dhabi International Airport are experiencing a historic moment, according to Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Interim CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports.
“A significant turning point in the development of Abu Dhabi’s aviation industry is the inaugural flight out of Terminal A. In addition to offering modern amenities to travelers and airlines alike, Terminal A significantly expands capacity.
“We’re excited to have more visitors throughout November as we continue to expand the number of flights that arrive and depart from Terminal A.”
A vital component of Etihad’s expansion plan, Terminal A can accommodate up to 45 million passengers a year and link Abu Dhabi with 117 international locations.
The Terminal offers exclusive facilities for guests travelling in Business and First to enjoy a fast-tracked, premium experience, as well as specialized check-in desks for Etihad’s Economy guests. Modern biometric self-bag drop facilities are provided for any visitor who wants to benefit from a quick check-in.
The First and Business class special check-in area features a kerbside drop off facility for guests flying in Etihad’s premium cabins. Porters are available to assist with bags.
The roomy new airport lounges from Etihad provide a range of food and drink options, a rooftop cocktail bar, a games room, and a family room. Three planes have direct boarding access available at the Lounge for increased convenience, so many visitors will be able to catch their trip right away.
Beginning on November 9, Etihad will gradually move its flight operations to Terminal A. In order to guarantee the most up-to-date information, the airline encourages all travelers to thoroughly verify their terminal information two days before to departure.
Etihad will operate from Terminal A and Terminal 3 between November 9 and November 14. Starting at 11 a.m. on November 14, Etihad will operate all flights from Terminal A.
Source- Travel daily