Etihad unveils its first Airbus A380 and Boeing 787 aircraft

(MENAFN- Arab News) Etihad Airways the national airline of the United Arab Emirates has capped an incredible 12 months by unveiling its first Airbus A380 and Boeing 787 aircraft to more than 200 of the world's media in Abu Dhabi.

The doors to the airline's two new flagship aircraft in the distinctive new "Facets of Abu Dhabi" livery were opened for the first time to reveal the new cabin interiors which include the ultra-luxurious Residence by Etihad the only three-room suite in the sky.

Etihad Airways also unveiled a new cabin crew uniform at a spectacular catwalk fashion show. It's the first major uniform re-launch since the airline's formation in 2003 and incorporates the same colours used for the cabin interior and new aircraft livery.

James Hogan Etihad Airways' president and chief executive Officer said: 'As we have done so many times in our short history we are reshaping the landscape of modern air travel in our own way.

'Today is the culmination of many years of hard work and tremendous endeavour by hundreds of people both in our airline and outside.

'With the launch of these aircraft we usher in a new era of unparalleled luxury comfort and service. These innovations represent our vision for the future.'

In addition to the media event at Abu Dhabi airport Etihad Airways is also hosting an event for travel industry partners and one for the airline's staff today ensuring that by the end of the day more than 1500 people will have toured the two new aircraft.

The fashion show saw 22 Etihad Airways cabin crew showcasing the new uniform which has been designed by Italian couturier Ettore Bilotta.

Following the events in Abu Dhabi the A380 and Boeing 787 aircraft will continue test operations before starting commercial flights. The A380 will operate daily to London Heathrow from Dec. 27 and the 787 to Dusseldorf from Feb. 1 2015.