Etihad Airways has finally confirmed it is reintroducing four of its A380s from the summer of 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.
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.”
According to AeroRoutes, Etihad A380 will be operating EY011/012 service from 15JUL23, followed by EY019/020 from 01AUG23.
EY011 AUH0205 – 0645LHR 388 D
EY019 AUH0830 – 1305LHR 388 D
EY025 AUH1045 – 1510LHR 781 D
EY017 LHR1420 – 1845LHR 789 D
EY012 LHR0930 – 1940AUH 388 D
EY020 LHR1450 – 0055+1AUH 388 D
EY018 LHR2055 – 0645+1AUH 789 D
EY026 LHR2155 – 0745+1AUH 781 D
Etihad’s A380s feature The Residence as well as three cabin classes on the double-decker aircraft, 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.
Etihad's A380 return will be supported by the addition of five of their smaller A320. The airline is currently preparing the aircraft to fly again, and part of this preparation includes the recruitment and training of A380 teams, including pilots, cabin crew and technical ground staff.
What are your thoughts about Etihad returning just 4 of their A380s?