Etihad flew high successfully in 2006

LANDMARK: A fleet of new aircraft, 16 new routes and the accolade of world's leading new airline for the third year running has made 2006 a landmark year for Etihad Airways.

The Abu Dhabi-based National Airline of the UAE has undergone unparalleled growth during 2006 with the momentum set to increase even further during 2007.

"The last 12 months at Etihad has witnessed a major transformation in all areas of the business, and strengthened our place at the very forefront of the aviation industry," said CEO, Etihad Airways James Hogan.

Etihad once again triumphed at the prestigious World Travel Awards (WTA), not only winning the title for the World's Leading New Airline for the third year in a row, but also the award for the World's Leading Flat-bed Seat.

A record four million Guests are anticipated for 2007. Currently, 80 percent of Etihad's fleet is brand new which is unprecedented in the world of air travel. The new A340-500 forms part of the airline's record $8 billion order, which was made in 2004 for 29 new Airbus and Boeing aircraft.

As the past 12 months witnessed unprecedented growth at Etihad, its staff grew to more than 3,400 working across the world, comprising over 90 different nationalities.