The first commercial flight from Abu Dhabi International Airport’s new Terminal A has departed, with all Etihad Airways flights expected to transition to the new terminal by 6pm on 14 November 2023.
Carrying 359 passengers, the first flight to operate out of the new facility was EY224, which operated as a special ceremonial service to New Delhi, India.
To mark the special occasion, all passengers – including those in economy and business classes – were given the privilege of being the first guests at the brand-new flagship Etihad Lounge, which spans three floors at Terminal A.
After sampling a special celebratory menu at the new lounge, guests proceeded to Gate C27, where they encountered themed decorations and a photo booth set up to capture the milestone.
The ceremonial flight was officially inaugurated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by a distinguished group of guests, which included members of the Etihad and Abu Dhabi Airport Board, as well as prominent figures from the aviation industry.
Among those in attendance were Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad, Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Interim CEO at Abu Dhabi Airports, and Frank McCrorie, Chief Operations Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports.
“This is a pivotal and exciting moment in Etihad’s history. As we begin to celebrate our 20th anniversary in November, we are ready for the next growth chapter in our new home,” Neves said.
“Our congratulations go to the Abu Dhabi leadership for their vision in creating what is one of the world’s most spectacular airports.
“The terminal is a stunning piece of architecture that echoes the local landscape and warmly welcomes our guests and elevates their travel experience.
“As we begin our transition to our new home, we look forward to welcoming even more passengers as we continue to grow and expand our fleet and network.”
Sorlini said, “The first flight from Terminal A marks a major milestone in the journey of Abu Dhabi’s aviation sector”.
“Terminal A brings a significant increase to capacity, and delivers state-of-the-art facilities to both airlines and passengers,” she said.
“We look forward to welcoming more passengers throughout November as we continue to increase the number of flights departing and arriving at Terminal A.”
Authorities expect the new terminal will handle up to 45 million passengers annually, providing dedicated check-in desks for Etihad’s Economy guests, as well as exclusive areas for Business and First guests.
Premium cabin flyers will also have access to a kerbside drop-off facility outside of the First and Business class check-in area as well as entry into Etihad’s new airport lounges.
The lounge
The lounges will boast a variety of dining options, a rooftop bar, multiple relaxation spaces, a games room and a family room. The Lounges will also offer direct boarding for three aircraft.
Starting November 9, Etihad Airways is implementing a phased transition of its flights to Terminal A.
For the most reliable information, passengers are advised to confirm their terminal details within two days of their trip.
Between November 9 and 14, Etihad will accommodate passengers at both Terminal A and Terminal 3. However, from 11am on November 14, all Etihad flights will only depart from Terminal A.
Earlier this year, Etihad revealed the new interior for its latest addition of Boeing 787 Dreamliners.
In 2022, the carrier signed an MoU with net-zero solutions provider World Energy for a long-term partnership to decarbonise its flights through in-sector emissions reductions.
