Dubai: Etihad Airways said on Tuesday that Miami-based businessman and aviation enthusiast Gino Bertuccio is the first guest to book the inaugural flight in The Residence.
The Residence is a private three-room cabin, featuring a living room, a butler and en suite shower room. According to Etihad, there will be just one “Residence” per Airbus A380 aircraft.
It is a product of five years research and can accommodate up to two passengers. Etihad has said The Residence offers the luxury of a private jet offering at a more affordable price. Passengers can travel from Abu Dhabi to London for $20,000.
Etihad’s first A380 inaugural flight departs from Abu Dhabi International Airport for London’s Heathrow Airport on December 27.
Bertuccio will have a Savoy Academy-trained butler on call throughout the duration of his flight, as well as a dedicated concierge team.
“For the first time in my flying experience, I really don’t know what to expect but I do know that flying in the Residence by Etihad will be a truly unique adventure, the top of luxury. I have huge expectations. My only wish is that the flight was longer,” Bertuccio said.
Bertuccio has travelled on 22 inaugural and final flights in premium class cabins, with his first inaugural 25 years ago. He is a collector of airline memorabilia, with nearly 2000 model aeroplanes and albums filled with boarding passes, certificates and photos from past flights.
Passengers will be able to upgrade to “The Residence” by using their frequent flyer miles, according to the Abu Dhabi-based airline.
Etihad has also rejigged its first class offering, now called First Apartments on the A380 and features nine private suites with a reclining lounge, a separate full-length bed, as well as other amenities including a minibar.
