An overview of Etihad Airways | |
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Etihad Airways was formed in July 2003 in the United Arab Emirates, as a result of a decree that was issued by the then Crown Prince, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The airline was formed as the National Carrier of the UAE. The name ‘Etihad’ means ‘united’ and was intended to serve as a symbol of bonding amongst the seven countries of the United Arab Emirates.
Etihad Airways was inaugurated on the 5th of November 2003. The inaugural flight to mark this event was a short flight to Al Ain in Abu Dhabi. In the week that followed, the airline made its first commercial flight to Beirut. Over the next few months, Etihad Airways grew at a phenomenal rate and was adding at least one new route to its maps almost every month. By June 2006 the airline managed to add 30 destinations in an amazingly short period of 30 months. The airline is committed to reaching a target of 70 destinations by the year 2010. In the few years that Etihad has been in operation, they have sported some significant achievements and have won themselves their fair share of awards. In June 2004 they launched the first direct flights in the world from the United Arab Emirates to Toronto, Brussels and Geneva. They also introduced the first non-stop flight from Johannesburg to Abu Dhabi. Among the awards that the airline has won, are World’s Leading New Airline; World’s Leading Flatbed Seat & Best Economy Class Catering. They have also bagged an award for being the Best Business Class Airline. Etihad Airways goes by the simple motto that all passengers are to be sincerely welcomed and treated as their valued guests. This belief forms the backbone of everything they do, regardless of whether it is ensuring that their fleet offers the latest in technology or whether it is letting their passengers decide which movies they would like to watch. They are also very proud of being United Arab Emirates’ National Airline. Etihad Airways runs an extensive passenger loyalty program. Apart from the regular accumulation of miles every time you fly with them, they also provide innovative ways for their passengers to redeem their miles. For instance, passengers can, among others, use the points earned in auctions or give these points as donations. Besides the airline, Etihad Airways also has a cargo division and a leisure division. Etihad Cargo offers air cargo facilities that are one of the best in its class. Etihad Holidays, as the name suggests, offers holiday packages that are suitable for all types of tastes and budgets. |