Etihad Airways yesterday introduced its first Boeing 787 Dreamliner into commercial service with the first flight flying from Abu Dhabi to Dusseldorf.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at the departure gate to mark the occasion, attended by Etihad representatives and special gift packs were handed to guests on the inaugural flight, including luggage tags, passport holders and commemorative B787 certificates.

Etihad Airways president and chief executive officer James Hogan, said that this is a tremendous milestone for Etihad Airways.

“The Boeing 787 is without doubt the most technologically advanced aircraft in its class. It will provide us with a clear reduction in operating costs and carbon emissions, at maximum reliability and efficiency,” Mr Hogan said.

Etihad Airways revolutionary new B787 interiors feature 8 First Suites, 28 Business Studios and 199 Economy Smart Seats, all featuring on-board décor and lighting inspired by contemporary modern Arabian design.

Etihad Airways’ order for two variants of the B787 (-9 and -10), is one of the largest for the type, totalling 71 aircraft.

The airline will place the aircraft on other key medium and long-haul routes such as Washington DC, Mumbai, Moscow and Brisbane, with more destinations being added as the airline takes delivery of more of the type.

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