Etihad Airways recently celebrated the return of its iconic Airbus A380 aircraft to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, enhancing the travel experience between the two capitals. The world’s largest passenger aircraft, measuring 73 meters in length and 24 meters in height, the Airbus A380 marks its return to the Paris route with Etihad’s most celebrated inflight features.
The aircraft includes the famous The Residence, the world’s only three-room suite in the sky. The upper deck also features The Lobby, an exclusive lounge area for first and business class guests.
Abu Dhabi-Paris network expands
Designed and manufactured in Europe, with final assembly in Toulouse, the Airbus A380 is a proud achievement of French aerospace engineering and innovation. Therefore, Etihad Airways’ A380 return to Paris celebrates this French aviation legacy.
“As a city celebrated for its style and ambiance, Paris continues to be a key destination in our global network. The return of our A380 strengthens the travel offering between Abu Dhabi and Paris, reflecting our commitment to this important route,” stated Arik De, chief revenue and commercial officer of Etihad Airways.
The return of the A380 to Paris falls in line with Etihad Airways’ broader network expansion plans, which include increasing to year-round, double-daily frequencies to Milan, Rome, Manchester, Frankfurt, Munich, Zurich, Barcelona, and Madrid. Moreover, it reflects the rising demand for travel to France.
Route capacity surges 31 percent
The return of the A380 to Paris increases Etihad Airways’ route capacity by 31 percent, with an additional three-class Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner joining the service from January 15, 2025. Both aircraft will operate in a three-class configuration, with the signature Etihad First Class experience available on all frequencies.
The A380 offers 486 seats, including nine First Apartments, 70 Business Studios, and 405 Economy Smart seats with 68 extra-legroom options. Meanwhile, the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner features 8 First Suites, 28 Business Studios, and 190 Economy Smart seats.
Read: Resorts World One celebrates maiden trip from Dubai
5,000 seats weekly
Together, these aircraft will offer nearly 5,000 seats weekly, significantly boosting connectivity between the two capitals. In addition, the enhanced schedule gives visitors more opportunities to enjoy Abu Dhabi’s offerings, while providing seamless connections to key destinations worldwide as a global hub.
The Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi stopover program further enhances this connectivity, enabling travelers to extend their layovers into memorable stays with up to two complimentary nights at premium hotels in Abu Dhabi, highlighting the city’s growing appeal as a must-visit destination.
The enhancement of the Paris service marks another milestone in Etihad Airways’ commitment to connecting global destinations and providing an elevated travel experience.
For more news on hospitality & tourism, click here.