On November 29, 2023, Etihad Airways issued a press statement with exciting news. Etihad Airways has announced that it will begin A380 service from Abu Dhabi to NYC, JFK. The A380 flights are scheduled to begin on April 22, 2024. This timing coincides with the peak summer travel season. Furthermore, the change addresses the increased demand for corporate travel during this time period. This move strengthens Etihad’s presence in the critical US market while also connecting it to a larger region that includes Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and other Indian subcontinent countries.
The A380 will operate one of the two daily flights to New York, with a 787-9 on the other.
Current and Expanded Routes in North America and Europe
London was the first city to welcome back Etihad’s A380 post-pandemic, offering a remarkable flying experience. Additionally, Etihad will open a new route to Boston, its fourth US destination, on March 31, 2024, just three weeks before the A380 begins flights to New York.
Etihad Airways currently flies to Chicago (ORD), New York (JFK), and Washington, D.C. (IAD). They also operate a route between Abu Dhabi and Toronto (YYZ), Canada (other North American Services). Besides growing its routes in North America, Etihad is adding new European destinations like Lisbon, Copenhagen, and Düsseldorf [link].
The Residence: Unparalleled Luxury at 40,000 Feet
The A380 has a luxurious First Apartments which offer a exquisite flying experience with nine private spaces, each equipped with designer tableware, a spacious leather lounge chair, and an 80″ lie-flat bed. First-class guests also have personal vanity units and access to an exclusive shower room.
The Residence takes luxury to the next level as the world’s only three-room suite in the sky. Accommodating up to two guests, it includes a private living room, bedroom, and ensuite bathroom with a shower at 40,000 feet. A dedicated Etihad cabin crew ensures top-notch service. Guests in The Residence can enjoy gourmet meals on designer tableware, served in the private living room or even opt for breakfast in bed. The Residence Signature High Tea offers a range of lavish options, from champagne to caviar [link].
The Residence includes butler service, customized menus prepared by onboard chefs, and access to exclusive airport lounges. It provides a level of comfort and service comparable to a private jet and is regarded as one of the most luxurious and exclusive experiences in commercial aviation [link].
Special Upgrade Promotion
In celebration of this milestone, Etihad is offering a special upgrade promotion for The Residence between November 29 and December 12, 2023. One-way tickets from April 22, 2024 (excluding June 14-24, 2024) start at 10,999 AED for one person or 14,999 AED for two. One-way The Residence upgrade fares between Abu Dhabi and New York start at 16,600 AED.
First Class Redemption Option using Reward Miles
If you want to try Etihad Airways First Class, you can use Aeroplan and American Airlines AAdvantage miles for redemption. Travelers with Aeroplan points can book a one-way First Class flight from East Coast to Abu Dhabi for 120,000 Aeroplan points. American Airlines AAdvantage points provide redemption options for 115,000 miles on the same route.
In Conclusion:
Etihad Airways plans to start flying its A380 from Abu Dhabi to NYC, JFK on April 22, 2024. This move meets increased summer travel demand while emphasizing luxury with The Residence, a one-of-a-kind three-room suite. A new route to Boston is among the airline’s expansion plans.
While I haven’t experienced the luxury of The Residence yet, I’m all about dreaming big and working towards turning those dreams into reality! They say our thoughts can shape our world, and I’m using that manifestation magic to imagine the day when I’ll not only travel but also get the chance to enjoy the splendor of The Residence suite. Here’s to the day when dreams can take flight.
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