Dubai: UAE holidaymakers heading to Paris will soon be able to experience flying in the world’s largest passenger aircraft.
Etihad announced on Wednesday that it will start operating its superjumbo jet, the Airbus A380, to the French capital in the next few months, just in time for the summer travel rush.
The double-decker wide-bodied aircraft features The Residence, the world’s first three-room suite on a commercial plane that can accommodate one or two guests.
It comes with a living room, a 32-inch LCD monitor, bedroom with a double bed, a separate en-suite shower room. Guests staying in the luxurious cabin on the upper deck will also have a dedicated personal butler and a private chef.
Offering a total of 496 seats, the plane will be operated on one of Etihad’s twice-daily services to Paris from Abu Dhabi between July 1 and October 28.
“Paris is one of our busiest and best performing European routes, so the deployment of this upgraded service will benefit travellers to and from Abu Dhabi, and our popular connecting cities across Asia and Australia,” said Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways chief executive officer.
The Abu Dhabi-based carrier has eight A380s that fly to London, Sydney, New York and Melbourne. Paris will be the latest to join Etihad’s A380 long haul destinations.
Etihad’s A380 also offers premium accommodation in First Class through its First Apartments which feature a flat-screen television, a chilled mini-bar, personal vanity unit, wardrobe and a fully equipped shower room.
Also on the second floor of the giant airliner are the 70-configured Business Studios, all equipped with a fully flat bed and ample personal space.
The jet’s lobby, just close to the First Class and Business Class cabins, has two comfortable sofas and a staffed bar.
“The airline has taken the finest details from the best service hospitality establishments around the world to redefine the A380 travel experience – from the comfort of a seat and finest cuisine to new inflight amenities and extensive entertainment options,” the airline said.
“Inflight chefs create a made-to-order dining experience from a larder or fresh ingredients for guests travelling in The Residence and First Class.”
