Special A380 flight to the Maldives from Etihad Airways

The Abu Dhabi based national airline of the United Arab Emirates, Etihad Airways marked the opening of the new runway at Velana International Airport in the Maldives by operating a special flight on one of its double-decker Airbus A380 aircraft to the island nation. The chosen aircraft was the one adorned in the special Year of Zayed livery, that turns heads wherever it flies. 

The new 3,400 metre-long and 60-metre-wide runway is the first in the Maldives capable of supporting an A380. The special Etihad operation was piloted by First Officer, Ali Ahuson, who is from The Maldives and was captured in a special video released by the airline.

The Etihad Airways A380 features a total capacity of 496 seats – up to two guests in The Residence, nine First Apartments, 70 Business Studios and 415 Economy Smart Seats.

The special Year of Zayed liveried flagship of the fleet will also operate a special rotation to Saudi Arabia on 23rd September to mark Saudi Arabia's National Day.  The A380 will be deployed on EY311 and EY312, between Abu Dhabi and Jeddah. The flight crew operating the aircraft will be both Saudi and UAE Nationals.


(Photos Etihad Airways)