Etihad Celebrates Anniversary at Zayed Airport

Terminal A Turns One: Etihad’s Special Day

Etihad Airways is celebrating a year of notable growth and achievement at its hub in Terminal A of Zayed International Airport. Since moving to the new terminal in November 2023, the airline has significantly increased its operations, expanding from 1,336 weekly flights to 1,732. Its extensive network connects Abu Dhabi to over 80 destinations worldwide.

Etihad operates from Terminal A and has been instrumental in Zayed International Airport’s recognition as the fastest-growing airport in the Middle East for scheduled seat capacity on international flights. The airport has the capacity to handle up to 45 million passengers each year.

Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “In just one year, Terminal A has transformed the travel experience for our guests and supported Etihad’s ambitious growth plans. This world-class facility has enhanced our service standards significantly, offering greater comfort and convenience while strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a global aviation hub. As we expand our network and fleet, Terminal A provides the perfect platform for Etihad’s next chapter of growth.”

The airline’s premium offering has reached new heights with its flagship First and Business Class lounges, which span three floors. These exclusive spaces include the Be Relax Spa, available to all passengers, offering complimentary treatments for First Class and Residence guests. The lounges feature the Liwan Global Dining restaurant, complete with live cooking stations and a buffet, as well as the iconic Constellation Bar, which boasts a 25-metre glass lighting sculpture depicting the Abu Dhabi skyline. Additionally, the lounges provide direct boarding access from three gates, dedicated family spaces, relaxation rooms equipped with day beds, showers, and VIP rooms reserved for first-class lounge guests.

Furthermore, the Etihad Chauffeur waiting area provides shower facilities and grab-and-go snacks for arriving guests, allowing them to refresh after their flight before using the service. Improving the guest experience has been a top priority during Etihad’s first year at Terminal A. Passengers can now use self-service kiosks equipped with biometric face recognition to drop off their bags in as little as 30 seconds. The terminal’s biometric technology is currently available at check-in, boarding gates, and immigration points, with plans for further expansion in the future. This technology aims to ensure a smooth and efficient journey for travellers.

The recent relocation of the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) facility to Terminal A significantly improves the passenger experience. This makes Abu Dhabi the only US preclearance facility in the Middle East and Asia. This service allows Etihad’s guests to complete all US immigration and customs procedures prior to departure, ensuring a seamless arrival in the United States. Etihad Airways is continuing its network expansion strategy by introducing new destinations worldwide in 2024 and 2025, following the continued fleet expansion and the addition of more aircraft from its hub at Zayed International Airport.