Travellers for whom intellectual rigour is a key consideration will soon be able to combine that with flying on the world's biggest jetliner as Etihad Airways deploys its Airbus A380 on the Abu Dhabi-Paris route.
The huge double-decker will operate on one of its twice-daily services to Paris between July 1 and October 28.
For those wishing to get a taste of the luxury Paris is noted for before they arrive, the unique The Residence suite aboard the Etihad A380 provides a suitable introduction.
And, mirroring Parisian style and sophistication, The Lobby is a luxurious lounge located between the First Class and Business Class cabins and features comfortable sofas and a staffed bar, reflecting the elegance the “City of Light” is noted for.
As well as being the setting for many a romantic tale, Paris got its nickname for being a place of enlightenment in the 18th century, becoming a centre of education, philosophy and learning. The city becomes the airline's latest A380 long-haul destination following London, Sydney, New York and Melbourne. With the aircraft upgrade from a 328-seat Boeing 777, Etihad also offers the 496-seat A380 daily service from Paris to both Melbourne and Sydney via Abu Dhabi.
“Paris is one of our busiest and best performing European routes, so the deployment of this upgraded service will benefit travellers to and from Abu Dhabi, and our popular connecting cities across Asia and Australia,” said Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways chief executive.
There are nine First Apartments in First Class and 70-configured Business Studios located on the upper deck of the A380.
There is also a Flying Nanny, trained by the world-famous Norland College in the United Kingdom, on board every A380 to provide childcare support for families travelling with young children.
Flight EY31 leaves Abu Dhabi International Airport of 02.15hrs, arriving at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport at 07.50hrs, with the return flight EY32 leaving the French capital at 10.40hrs, arriving in Abu Dhabi at 19.30hrs (all times local).
chnelson@thenational.ae
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Delores Johnson / The National
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