Etihad Airways Economy Class experience is about to reach new heights.
Anybody flying on Etihad Airways in the fourth quarter of this year is about to experience more than they bargained for as they head for the skies in style, turning blue skies green in the process. The national carrier of the UAE’s new Economy Class soft furnishings and tableware has been designed with sustainability and improved guest experience as the airline’s primary objectives.
Soft furnishings include a 35 per cent larger pillow for that added comfort when flying. Not only that, you will be pleased to know that the pillows are not only super comfortable but have been created with a 200 thread-count cotton cover that has been made locally in the UAE. And when the temperature dips, you will be reaching for a soft blanket that has been made from recycled plastic.
It is not just the soft furnishings that have been elevated to laudable sustainable levels, Etihad’s new dining experience is set to feature reusable tableware made from recycled high-quality plastic that eliminates the use of single-use plastic.
The tray, serving plates and their lids are part of a closed loop recycling system. At the end of their lifecycle, they are collected, washed, ground and reused to make new replacement products. Quality stainless-steel cutlery will also be introduced into the Economy cabin to upgrade the passenger experience, not to mention, and importantly, reduce single-use plastic.
It was back in 2019 that Etihad committed to removing 80 per cent of single-use plastic from its operation by the end of 2022. The introduction of this new inflight equipment ensures the airline meets this sustainability goal. Furthermore, and where possible, Etihad is also moving towards locally produced items which will further improve the overall environmental impact of the operation.
“Etihad is trailblazing when it comes to sustainability in aviation,” said Terry Daly, Executive Director Guest Experience, Brand and Marketing. “Following extensive research and development through our eco-flights over the past few years, we’re proud to reveal the first in a series of enhancements to our inflight experience.
“Our commitment to sustainability doesn’t come at a compromise to the quality and thoughtfulness behind Etihad’s guest experience, and these innovative new products will further improve our offering. We look forward to rolling out this new experience across the fleet towards the latter part of the year.”
The launch of the new Economy Class experience follows a notable year for the airline which introduced its new Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi themed children’s packs across its fleet in February.
This was followed by the unveiling of the new Airbus A350-1000 aircraft which entered into service in March and is the first of five A350-1000’s to join the Etihad fleet this year. The A350-1000 features Etihad’s new interior cabin design, including the state-of-the-art Economy and Business class seating.
For more information, visit etihad.com
