Etihad Airways will introduce the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on its scheduled services from Abu Dhabi to Barcelona, effective February 22, 2019, replacing the Airbus A330-200 currently operating the recently launched route.
The deployment of the larger 787 Dreamliner to Barcelona has been timed to coincide with the Mobile World Conference taking place in the city from February 25-28, during which Etihad Airways will provide daily flights. The airline will increase frequency to a permanent daily operation from March 31.
The service will feature Etihad Airways' next-generation Business and Economy cabins, configured with 299 seats - 28 Business Studios and 271 Economy Smart Seats - a capacity increase of six seats in Business and 31 in Economy in each direction, and an increase in belly-hold cargo capacity of four tonnes. The aircraft has been designed with enhancements including humidity controls while air pressure levels are set to ensure a smoother flight, allowing guests to arrive feeling fresher.
Robin Kamark, Etihad Aviation Group's chief commercial officer, said: "We are delighted to now include Barcelona to our growing list of Dreamliner destinations. We launched flights to the city just last month and forward passenger and cargo demand on the route from Abu Dhabi, and beyond, has encouraged us to accelerate the deployment of the larger 787 on this popular service. Together with Madrid, also operated by the 787-9 Dreamliner, the move will guarantee product consistency and more convenient travel options for our customers travelling to and from Spain, ensuring they experience the quietest cabins and our latest in-flight products and innovations."
Etihad Airways operates an extensive codeshare partnership with Air Europa (UX) allowing guests a seamless transfer with the Spanish airline's services between Barcelona and Madrid. Etihad also codeshares with Air Europa beyond Madrid to 19 cities in Europe, South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
- business@khaleejtimes.com
Published: Wed 19 Dec 2018, 2:42 PM
Updated: Wed 19 Dec 2018, 4:45 PM