Etihad to reintroduce A380 fleet after surge in travel demand

Etihad Airways has announced it is reintroducing four of its A380s in the summer of 2023, with plans to operate to London Heathrow. 

The move follows a surge in demand for air travel across the airline’s network.

The airline said it will free up capacity for increased frequencies on existing routes and the launch of new destinations.

"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 India that will bring more visitors to the city of Abu Dhabi," said Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman, Etihad Aviation Group.

The A380s’ return will be supported by the addition of five of their smaller A320 siblings, the statement added. 

Etihad 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. 

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.

The nine First Apartments set across a single-aisle, offer a private living space with a large leather lounge chair and an ottoman which opens up to become a separate 80.5" long fully-flat bed. The First Apartment is one of the most spacious in its class and also offers a 24" swiveling LCD TV monitor and personal vanity unit. For the first time, Etihad plans to eventually offer The Residence as an optional extra for guests to further enhance their First experience.

The Lobby, available to guests in First and Business class, is a serviced lounge and bar area located between the two cabins, featuring leather sofas, refreshments and a large TV with a USB connection.