Etihad Airways now flies the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner to Shanghai from Abu Dhabi. The new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner features the airline’s next-generation business and economy class cabins, and will operate with 299 seats, 28 in business class and 271 in economy, representing a 14% capacity increase on the route.
Etihad Airways first launched a five-times-a-week two-class Airbus A330-200 services to Shanghai in March 2012. Peter Baumgartner, CEO, Etihad Airways, said: “Since launching flights between Shanghai and Abu Dhabi four years ago, we have experienced first-hand the huge growth of China’s outbound tourism market and enjoyed strong demand from both business and leisure travellers.
“The decision to upgrade to the Boeing 787 reflects the importance of Shanghai and China to the airline. Shanghai is a modern metropolis and a global economic, financial, trading and shipping centre, which underlines its importance within Etihad Airways’ global network and supports the introduction of the new aircraft.”
China recently surpassed the US as the biggest business travel market in the world, according to the Global Business Travel Association, representing US$291.2 billion spending on business travel in 2015. The Dreamliner will assist Etihad Airways’ growing reputation amongst the business community in China, with the aircraft specifically catering to the long-haul business market.
The airline’s world-renowned guest experience begins well before departure and lasts long after arrival. For example, its chauffeur service is available in over 30 cities globally including Beijing and Shanghai. At Terminal 3 in Abu Dhabi International Airport, guests pass through a dedicated premium check-in facility into the luxury of an exclusive Business Class Lounge, while a new flagship First Class Lounge & Spa opened at the end of May for first class guests and eligible Etihad Airways Partners (EAP) Platinum Frequent Flyers.
On the aircraft, the Business Studios offer direct aisle access, a fully-flat bed of up to 80.5" long, and an increase of 20% in personal space. Upholstered in Poltrona Frau leather, the Business Studio is equipped with an in-seat massage and pneumatic cushion control system which enables guests to adjust the firmness and comfort of their seat. Each Business Studio has an 18" personal touch-screen TV with noise-cancelling headsets.
Business guests also have access to three choices of main course on the menu, with a dine-on-demand option for travellers who wish to choose when to eat. Each business guest also receives a customised Etihad Airways LUXE amenity kit, inspired by some of the iconic cities on the airline’s extensive global network. Passengers on board have access to a dedicated food and beverage manager and a multinational crew.
For inflight entertainment, Etihad Airways currently operates the latest Panasonic eX3 IFE system on its flagship fleet of Boeing 787s and Airbus A380s. Guests can also enjoy mobile connectivity, access to onboard Wi-Fi and seven satellite channels of live TV on many aircraft.
The airline’s Smart Seats in economy provide enhanced comfort with a unique ‘fixed wing’ headrest, adjustable lumbar support, a seat width of approximately 19" and an 11.1” personal TV monitor on each seat. The aircraft has been designed for optimum long-haul travel with enhancements including humidity controls while air pressure levels are set to ensure a smoother flight allowing guests to arrive feeling fresher on arrival.
Shanghai is the seventh destination in the world to be served by Etihad Airways’ B787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, with the aircraft also deployed to Perth and Brisbane in Australia, and Singapore in Asia. With a further 62 Boeing 787 Dreamliners scheduled for delivery over the next few years, the aircraft is to become the mainstay of Etihad Airways’ long-haul fleet.
Daily flight schedule for Abu Dhabi-Shanghai:
EY862 departs Abu Dhabi (AUH) 10:25pm and arrives Shanghai (PVG) at 11:10am the next day
EY867 departs Shanghai (PVG) 12:30am and arrives Abu Dhabi (AUH) at 6:15am
*All departures and arrivals are listed in local time.
