< Previous4 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | November 2023 A vision takes fl ight Etihad Airways was established in July 2003 following a royal decree issued by the late President, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The national airline of the UAE, Etihad was founded with a vision to redefi ne air travel, connecting the world through our hub at Abu Dhabi International Airport. And with our fi rst fl ight in November 2003, we began to realise that vision; setting a new standard of service in the sky, off ering unparalleled comfort, world-class entertainment, and hospitality that is second to none. Setting new benchmarks in travel Over the years, Etihad Airways has consistently raised the bar for luxury travel. Our cabins have become synonymous with comfort across the world, with the introduction of The Residence – a three-room suite complete with a living room, bedroom, and bathroom – setting a new standard for onboard satisfaction. But it’s not just our premium cabins that off er an exceptional in-fl ight experience. With Economy SMART SEAT®, complimentary food, and hours of on-demand entertainment on every fl ight, our Economy Class experience has been thoughtfully curated with comfort and convenience in mind. Fuelled by innovation Etihad has always been at the forefront of aviation innovation. We’ve consistently invested in cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices to reduce our carbon footprint. We have also been a pioneer in introducing the latest aircraft to our fl eet, like the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and the Airbus A380, both of which raise the bar for comfort and effi ciency. And our commitment to innovation extends beyond our aircraft. The opening of Terminal A in Abu Dhabi International Airport is a testament to our promise to transform travel into an experience like no other. Terminal A eff ortlessly integrates state-of-the-art technology, infrastructure, and best-in-class services to streamline the travel experience and enhance connectivity for everyone. A global network In just two decades, Etihad Airways has built a global network that spans continents; we now fl y to over 70 destinations (and counting) across Asia, Australia, Europe, the Middle East, North America, and Africa. It was the dawn of a new millennium when Etihad Airways took its fi rst fl ight. And now, as we celebrate our 20th anniversary, it’s impossible not to be awed by the incredible journey we’ve embarked upon. In the span of just two decades, Etihad has transformed itself from a regional carrier into a global aviation powerhouse, setting new standards of luxury, innovation, and sustainability in the industry Etihad Airways’ remarkable journey over two decades Image courtesy of the National Library and Archives EtA_01-NOV-2023_04-05_Introduction _13047731.indd 401/11/2023 20:33November 2023 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | 5 Our commitment to sustainability As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, Etihad Airways has made sustainability a core part of its strategy. We’ve taken signifi cant steps to reduce our carbon emissions, including investing in fuel-effi cient aircraft, exploring alternative fuels, and implementing eco-friendly initiatives across our operations. Our commitment to sustainability is not just about compliance, however; it’s about leading the way towards a more sustainable future for the aviation industry. The human touch Beyond our state-of-the-art aircraft and luxurious cabins, what truly sets Etihad Airways apart is our people. From our crew on board to our teams in the boardroom, everyone is committed to delivering exceptional travel experiences. When you choose to travel the world with us, you can look forward to our warm culture and the authentic Emirati hospitality we’ve become renowned for. Looking to the future As we mark our 20th anniversary, we look forward to the new chapter that is set to unfold. So here’s to two decades – and to the next 20 years of setting new standards, connecting the world, and making dreams take fl ight. We can’t wait to share the adventure with you! EtA_01-NOV-2023_04-05_Introduction _13047731.indd 501/11/2023 16:446 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | November 2023 200320052007200920112013 20042006200820102012 The national airline of the UAE was launched by royal decree of the late HH Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Ceremonial flight to Al Ain, flying over all seven emirates of the UAE First commercial flight to Beirut Etihad Airways flies 1 million guests in a year for the first time Toronto flight marks initial expansion into North America First flight to Sydney, Australia Etihad wins World Travel Awards Middle East’s Leading Airline Etihad launches Hajj flights for pilgrims to both Jeddah and Medina Title sponsorship of Formula 1TM Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Official partnership with Manchester City FC Terminal 3, dedicated to Etihad Airways, opens in Abu Dhabi Aisha Al Mansoori is among the first female Emirati cadet pilots to graduate Manchester City FC’s home stadium is renamed to Etihad Stadium Stopover packages introduced for guests transiting through Abu Dhabi Etihad Crystal Cargo receives its first Boeing 777 freighter Etihad Airways hosts the Arab Air Carriers Organization annual meeting in Abu Dhabi Etihad Airways becomes one of the few airlines to serve all inhabited continents World Travel Awards World’s Leading Cabin Crew Frequencies on 18 existing routes are boosted Etihad Airways is named World’s Leading New Airline by World Travel Awards London marks first flight to Europe Cairo marks first flight to Africa Launch of Etihad Crystal Cargo World Travel Awards World’s Leading New Airline for the third year in a row Launch of Etihad Guest programme 34% annual increase in passenger numbers Second runway opens at Abu Dhabi International Airport Etihad unveils world’s largest aircraft order at Farnborough Air Show Etihad Guest members exceed 1 million Etihad Airways welcomes Katrina Kaif as brand ambassador Etihad Crystal Cargo is the first airline to introduce the Airbus A330-200F Over 45 million guests have flown Etihad since 2003 Wi-Fi is now provided on-board Etihad Crystal Cargo is renamed Etihad Cargo First Etihad flight using bio-fuel flies from Seattle, Washington to Abu Dhabi 20 years of excellence EtA_01-NOV-2023_06-07_Etihad timeline_13047735.indd 601/11/2023 16:31November 2023 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | 7 20152017201920212023 20142016201820202022FUTURE Airbus A380 joins our fleet New aircraft livery and cabin crew uniform unveiled The Middle East’s first and only US Immigration pre-clearance facility opens in Abu Dhabi International Airport Launch of The Residence, the only three-room suite in the sky in commercial aviation Boeing 787 joins our fleet Air Transport’s Cargo Airline of the Year and Airline Economics’ Airline of the Year Etihad First Class crowned world’s best at the World Travel Awards New boarding music launches as part of the Flying Reimagined campaign Etihad Airways flies Pope Francis back to Rome after historic UAE visit Etihad launches Greenliner programme Official airline partner of Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019, carrying over 4,000 athletes from 100 countries Etihad flies world’s first flight using biofuel made in the UAE Skytrax World’s Best First Class, Best First Class Seat and Best First Class Catering Etihad Airways announces it will donate AED 1 for every flight ticket sold in 2017, the UAE’s Year of Giving Airbus A340 airliner phased out Etihad Arena opens on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi The Middle East’s largest outdoor venue is renamed to Etihad Park Etihad Airways celebrates the UAE’s 50th National Day with a special livery Etihad Airways launches carbon offset programmes Terminal A opens Airbus A380 returns to the sky 10+ new destinations, more flights and improved flight times Launched Armani/ Casa tableware and textiles in Business Class Ranked Middle East’s most punctual airline by OAG Manchester City players return on Etihad flight after historic UCL win Wi-Fi free for Etihad Guest members Five-Star Global Airline by APEX for the third consecutive year World Travel Awards World’s Leading Airline for eighth year in a row First full-mark 5-star rating awarded by Skytrax Newly opened First Class Lounge & Spa wins World Travel Awards Middle East’s Leading Airport Lounge Most Innovative Airline of the Last Ten Years by the Telegraph ULTRAs Awards Launch of Economy Space Etihad Airways chef breaks world record for world’s highest pop-up restaurant at Everest Advanced High Camp – located an eight-day climb away New Acqua Di Parma amenity kit introduced in Business Class, First Class and The Residence Fleet grounded due to COVID-19 pandemic In early March, Etihad sends its largest aircraft, the A380, to Wuhan to evacuate 215 students from 11 different countries and operated further 100+ humanitarian and repatriation flights throughout the year Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, a joint venture between Etihad Airways and Air Arabia, takes flight New boarding music is launched, inspired by our UAE home, Abu Dhabi Airbus A350 joins our fleet Operated 40+ EcoFlights Airline celebrates 10 millionth guest First international airline to operate long-haul passenger flights to the top three Chinese gateways since the pandemic Etihad Aviation Group formally transferred to ADQ, an Abu Dhabi-based investment and holding company Growing our network to connect to even more destinations Doubling Etihad’s young and fuel- efficient fleet Trebling the number of guests we carry by 2030 Aspire to be the first choice employer in aviation Net-zero by 2050 EtA_01-NOV-2023_06-07_Etihad timeline_13047735.indd 703/11/2023 15:228 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | November 2023 For 20 years, luxury and innovation have been at the heart of everything we do at Etihad Airways. We take pride in being the pioneers of exceptional travel experiences, and we are committed to providing you, our guests, with nothing but the best Enhancing your in-fl ight experience 2003 Be our guests From the very beginning, we at Etihad Airways have been driven by a strong desire to bring about a positive change in the airline industry. Our goal is to stand out from the rest by treating you not just as passengers, but as our respected guests. Our aim is to provide an onboard experience that is warm, welcoming, and hospitable, leaving you feeling appreciated and valued. Unique cabins We introduced three diff erent award-winning zones, each designed to off er a luxurious experience tailored to your needs. Our Diamond zone was the epitome of luxury, followed by Pearl and Coral zones. Innovative seats In our Diamond zone, we created the fi rst social dining experience in the sky. Our specially designed seats allowed up to four guests to sit facing each other, making it easy to socialise while enjoying their meal. 2007 Hospitality at its fi nest In 2007, we began our Inspired Service initiative, taking cues from the hospitality industry by introducing Food and Beverage Managers and a Dine Anytime concept in our premium cabins. These cabin ambassadors ensured Diamond and Pearl guests had the best dining experience possible by helping them choose from a mouth- watering selection of menu items, recommending the perfect drinks to pair with their meals, and going the extra mile to customise the experience. EtA_01-NOV-2023_08-12_Fleet and onboard product evolution_13060561.indd 801/11/2023 16:32November 2023 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | 9 2010 Personalised dining We enhanced the Inspired Service programme by introducing Infl ight Chefs to complement our new First Suites. These culinary geniuses were handpicked exclusively from four- and fi ve-star hotels and restaurants across the world to serve our Diamond First cabin guests. Their exceptional skills and creativity brought a new level of fi ne dining to the skies. The Infl ight Chefs could whip up any personalised or requested meal on demand, giving our guests an unforgettable dining experience in the clouds. 2013 Flying Nannies In 2013, we introduced a team of Flying Nannies to assist parents with children. Our Flying Nannies were specially trained by Norland College in child psychology, and to engage children in exciting and interactive activities such as crafts, origami, and quizzes. They went above and beyond to ensure children had fun-fi lled and memorable fl ights. Empowering Emiratis We partnered with non-profi t organisation, Sougha, to create beautiful amenity kits for everyone onboard using a traditional Emirati weaving technique called Sadu. These limited- edition, handcrafted kits were not only functional and stylish, but also empowered local female artisans to preserve their heritage and make a living through their craft. 2014 Flying Reimagined In 2014, Etihad Airways launched the Flying Reimagined programme, a signifi cant step in our journey to redefi ne air travel. This programme introduced a new brand identity and innovative cabin products. Exclusive living We aimed to redefi ne luxury travel by introducing The Residence to our A380 aircraft. The world’s only three-room suite in the sky in commercial aviation boasts a private bedroom with a double bed, an ensuite shower room, and a living area that can accommodate up to two guests. As you sit back and relax, our dedicated team will cater to your every need. Indulge in a truly unique experience in the clouds, complemented by designer tableware and bedding. Etihad Butlers We also launched Etihad Butlers for The Residence in 2014. The butlers were trained at the Savoy Butler Academy in London, where they underwent a three- week course covering VIP guest care, valet skills, refi ned dining, and managing travel arrangements. Private apartments Our First Apartments allow you to soar through the skies in your very own private space. Feel free to close your door and enjoy the freedom of dining whenever you please and the way you prefer, choosing from our extensive à la carte menu and boutique wine list. When it’s time to rest, enjoy the ultimate comfort of our all-natural bedding and signature turn-down service on your fully-fl at bed, separate from the seat, and wake up to a refreshing shower on board. EtA_01-NOV-2023_08-12_Fleet and onboard product evolution_13060561.indd 901/11/2023 16:3210 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | November 2023 You’ll love the Lobby Our A380 aircraft is also home to The Lobby, the best social space in the sky. This elegant lounge is nestled between the First and Business cabins, and it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind, socialise with other travellers, or get some work done. Studio seats We take your comfort and style seriously, and our seats are a prime example of that. We introduced the Business Studios on our A380 and B787 aircraft. They provide more personal space and comfort than ever, with pneumatic air cushions, luxury fi nishing and direct aisle access. And when it’s time to rest, simply recline your seat into a fully-fl at bed that stretches out an impressive six feet, eight inches. 2015 Luxurious amenities We introduced LUXE branded amenity kits to Business Class guests, designed in collaboration with LUXE City Guides. These kits were inspired by six of the world’s most iconic cities – Abu Dhabi, Hong Kong, Los Angeles, London, Madrid, and Sydney. Each kit was unisex, with a soft collectable polyester case, and came with a LUXE City Guide for the showcased city. 2018 Exclusive and elegant amenities We were the fi rst airline to partner with Acqua di Parma, a brand that shares the same understated elegance, focus on design, luxury, and warmth associated with Etihad. We launched a range of exclusive amenity kits and toiletries for guests travelling in The Residence, and on long-haul First Class and Business Class services. 2020 Wellness Ambassadors We were among the fi rst to introduce a wellness proposition during the pandemic, with a team of Wellness Ambassadors at Abu Dhabi International Airport and onboard our fl ights. Our ambassadors were specially trained to provide essential travel information and care for guests at every point of their journey. We were the fi rst airline to introduce such a role, to provide reassurance to customers by sharing advice on travel wellbeing and details of the health and sanitisation measures. We also provided all of our guests with wellness kits on every fl ight. Smart seats We’ve also upgraded our Economy Class seats to feature adjustable headrests, back support, and cushion fi rmness features so you have complete control. The Economy Smart Seat on our A380 and Boeing 787-9 boasts our signature fi xed wing headrest, designed with your comfort in mind, ensuring you can rest well during your fl ight. EtA_01-NOV-2023_08-12_Fleet and onboard product evolution_13060561.indd 1001/11/2023 16:33November 2023 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | 11 2023 The Constellation Collection In 2023, we partnered with Armani/Casa, the luxury lifestyle brand by Giorgio Armani, to create an exclusive range of products for Business Class guests, setting an elevated new benchmark for the aviation industry. The innovative design of The Constellation Collection was inspired by the stars, which have always served as a guide for the people of the UAE. The use of multiple textures and colours throughout the collection is designed to represent the cultural diversity of the UAE and how these collectively come together as a complete and elegant collection. The enhanced collection includes new tableware featuring ceramics, glassware and cutlery, with refi ned silhouettes and contemporary fi nishes, luxurious Armani/ Casa bedding and a memory foam mattress to help you sleep well amongst the stars. The collaboration also showcases our commitment to sustainability, as the materials used reduced the overall equipment weight by up to 10%, resulting in fewer emissions. The Constellation Collection was also recognised with a Good Design Award for excellence in design and innovation, winning gold. Our bedding also won the TravelPlus award for Best Bedding in Business Class. 2022 Family fi rst We partnered with the award-winning theme park Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi to launch activity packs to help make travelling with children as easy and enjoyable as possible. Infants receive a soft fl eece blanket, children aged three to eight get a Cartoon Junction drawstring bag fi lled with goodies and games, and nine to 13-year-olds get a Scooby- Doo-themed backpack! Style and sustainability in Etihad Airways’ Economy Class This year, we signifi cantly upgraded our Economy Class cabins to make your journey more sustainable, comfortable, and enjoyable. We introduced contemporary, reusable tableware that’s part of a closed-loop recycling system, helping us achieve our goal of using 80% fewer single-use plastics. We have also upgraded our dining experience with high-quality stainless- steel cutlery and premium napkins. You will enjoy a more elevated dining experience with these thoughtful touches. We also know how important a good night’s sleep is, especially while travelling, so we have added larger pillows in soft fabric pillow covers to ensure you sleep soundly. On top of that, our plush, eco-friendly fl eece blanket, made from recycled plastic bottles, will keep you warm and comfortable throughout your journey. Welcome to a higher quality, more thoughtful Economy experience with Etihad Airways. What next? We’ve been on a mission for the past two decades to transform your fl ying experience into something truly exceptional. We’re proud of our achievements so far, but we also have plenty of exciting updates coming your way shortly. We promise to consistently push the boundaries to reach new heights. To keep up to date with all of our latest upgrades, you can follow us at @etihad on Instagram. EtA_01-NOV-2023_08-12_Fleet and onboard product evolution_13060561.indd 1101/11/2023 16:3312 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | November 2023 The inspiration behind our brand: From desert to design We call our library The Facets of Abu Dhabi. The concept – inspired by the culture, the geography and the innovation of Abu Dhabi – brings together the shapes of the desert landscape, the elegant precision of Islamic design motifs and the geometric patterns inherent in the local architecture whilst drawing on the powerful equities of the Etihad logo itself. It has been designed to be a powerful evocation of one of the world’s most remarkable 21st-century cities; a place with a rich tradition of hospitality, an eye for the best of global luxury, and a boundless vision for the future. A place that we at Etihad are proud to call home – Abu Dhabi. EtA_01-NOV-2023_08-12_Fleet and onboard product evolution_13060561.indd 1201/11/2023 16:33November 2023 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | 13 Then: 128 (2004) Now: 1,350 (2023) Then and now: Our journey so far An exploration of how Etihad Airways has grown exponentially since its establishment Weekly departures Now: Abu Dhabi – Sydney Distance AUH-SYD: 12,060km/7,500 miles Then: Abu Dhabi – Beirut Distance AUH-BEY: 2,130km/1,320 miles Longest flight by distance Then: 4 (2003) Now: 73 (by December 2023) Destinations Then: 2 (2003) Now: 80 (2023) Aircraft Then: 65,000 (2006) Now: 8,000,000+ (2023) Etihad Guest members Then: 1,761 (2004) Now: 10,000 (as of September 2023) Employees EtA_01-NOV-2023_13_Then vs now_13060651.indd 1301/11/2023 21:06Next >