Etihad Airways introduces Boeing 787 to Seoul

Etihad Airways has launched the Boeing 787-9 on its scheduled daily service from Abu Dhabi to Seoul.

The new two-class 787 Dreamliner service replaces the Airbus A340-600 aircraft previously operated on the route, and features Etihad Airways’ business and economy class cabins, configured with 299 seats – 28 business studios and 271 economy seats.

Mohammad Al Bulooki, Etihad Airways executive vice president commercial, said: “Seoul has been a very successful and popular route for Etihad Airways since it was launched in December 2010 and we are fast approaching our one millionth traveller milestone on the service.

“There has been a steady increase in the number of business and leisure travellers flying to South Korea from Abu Dhabi and the GCC region, and vice versa.

“The UAE government’s initiatives to develop the already strong trade ties between our two countries has allowed many Korean companies to operate successfully here, contributing to the success of Etihad Airways’ Seoul Incheon service.”

Etihad Airways’ fleet of 16 Boeing 787 aircraft feature new cabin designs and products, complemented by the airline’s service and hospitality offering. Seoul flights include food and beverage managers in business class and a Norland approved flying nanny in economy class to provide extra specialised care for families with young children.

The business studios offer direct aisle access, a fully-flat bed of up to 80.5 inches in length, and an increase of 20% in personal space. Each business studio has an 18-inch personal touch-screen TV with noise-cancelling headsets.

Economy smart seats provide enhanced comfort with a ‘fixed wing’ headrest, adjustable lumbar support, a seat width of approximately 19 inches and an 11.1” personal TV monitor on each seat. The aircraft has been designed with enhancements including humidity controls while air pressure levels are set to ensure a smoother flight.