Aviation

Boeing 787 Dreamliner in UAE

Etihad Airways has welcomed Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner to Abu Dhabi International Airport. It is the revolutionary composite aircraft’s first visit to the UAE capital.

The historic BOE787 flight landed at 7.05 pm local time on June 6, and was greeted by a traditional water canon salute on arrival. Etihad Airways’ Boeing 787 Project Pilot, Captain John Downey was at the controls throughout the 6,000 kilometre flight from Casablanca, Morocco.

Boeing's 787

Last December, Etihad Airways announced it was buying 10 more Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, taking its total order to 41, valued at US $9.3 billion, and making it the largest operator of the aircraft type in the world. The UAE flag carrier has options and purchase rights for an additional 25 and deliveries are scheduled to begin in the last quarter of 2014.

Etihad Airways President and Chief Executive Officer, James Hogan, said: “It’s a tremendous honour to welcome the 787 Dreamliner to Abu Dhabi. It also marks the official countdown for us, as we prepare to introduce this magnificent aircraft into our fleet from 2014.

“This aircraft is the future and our decision to opt for the 787 Dreamliner is testimony to our commitment to operating one of the youngest and most fuel efficient fleets in the skies.

The UAE flag carrier has worked closely with Boeing, Abu Dhabi Aircraft Technologies (ADAT) and the Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC), to coordinate a number of events aimed at celebrating the aircraft’s presence in the UAE capital.

Earlier today, a select group of VIP guests experienced a two hour demonstration flight, which included an aerial tour of the UAE. Hundreds of airline and airport-based workers also inspected the aircraft upon its return and the day will conclude with the Dreamliner at the centre of a special lightshow spectacular.

Captain Richard Hill, Etihad Airways’ Chief Operations Officer, said: “Everything about this aircraft is cutting edge. From the composite fuselage, which is lighter and stronger than aluminium, to the engines which are cleaner, quieter and more fuel efficient than other engines operating today, to the all-new wing design with raked wingtips, which help reduce drag and make the aircraft incredibly efficient and environmentally friendly. Pilots will love to fly it and passengers will be just as impressed.”

Double Skywards Miles for members

Skywards members will receive double the miles for first and business class travel booked in June Skywards, the frequent flyer programme of Emirates, brings members closer to their dreams by offering double Skywards Miles on First Class and Business Class travel booked in the month of June.

The global offer, available across all of Emirates 124 destinations, is applicable on flights booked by June 30, for travel before 16 August, 2012. As an additional bonus, the Double Miles offer is open to both new and existing Skywards members who register online at www.skywards.com. With no limit to the amount of Miles earned during the offer period, Skywards members can achieve their desired rewards even faster. Skywards Miles can be redeemed for an extensive range of rewards, including airline tickets, flight upgrades, hotel accommodation, excursions and exclusive shopping.

“With over 7 million Skywards members around the world, and multiple industry- and customer-based awards, Skywards has become the programme of choice for discerning travelers.

Likewise, Emirates award-winning First Class and Business Class service sets the standard for top onboard service and entertainment”, said Brian LaBelle, Senior Vice-President Skywards.