Etihad Airways has launched a new era of luxury air travel between Melbourne and Abu Dhabi with the introduction of the A380 superjumbo. This flagship aircraft, which features luxurious amenities like The Residence and next-generation cabins, will operate on one of the airline’s two daily flights between the cities, replacing a three-class Boeing 777-300ER. Passengers can enjoy innovative hospitality services during their flight, including a dedicated Butler, Inflight Chef, Flying Nanny, and Food and Beverage Managers.
This daily A380 service provides travelers from Victoria convenient access to over 900 weekly connections across Etihad’s network, spanning the Gulf region, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. Flight EY460 departs from Abu Dhabi at 10:15 pm, arriving in Melbourne at 5:45 pm the following evening. The return flight, EY461, leaves Melbourne at 10:10 pm.
Shane O’Hare, Etihad Airways’ Senior Vice President of Marketing, highlighted the significance of Melbourne joining their A380 network, making Australia the only country with daily A380 service to two cities—Melbourne and Sydney. He emphasized that this strategic decision demonstrates their commitment to the Australian market and caters to the increasing demand for premium travel experiences.
The A380 will significantly impact the Melbourne-Abu Dhabi route by increasing the total two-way seat capacity by 26% to over 11,500 seats weekly. This increased capacity, particularly the 70 business class seats, addresses the high demand for premium cabins and is expected to boost Etihad’s market share in this segment.
Lyell Strambi, CEO of Melbourne Airport, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership with Etihad, which has continued to flourish since the airline’s arrival in 2009. He highlighted the recent milestones, including the introduction of the second daily service, the new Premium Lounge at Melbourne Airport, and now the A380, all of which contribute significantly to meeting the airport’s anticipated passenger growth.
Etihad Airways’ A380 offers four classes of service: The Residence, First Apartments, Business Studios, and Economy Smart Seats, accommodating 496 passengers. This configuration provides an unparalleled level of luxury, space, and privacy.
The Residence, exclusively available on Etihad Airways, is the world’s first three-room suite on a commercial airliner. This opulent suite, spanning 125 square feet, is ideal for single or double occupancy. It features a living room, a separate ensuite shower room, and a double bedroom, complete with multiple LCD monitors. Guests in The Residence enjoy the services of a personal Butler, trained at the renowned Savoy Butler Academy in London, and an onboard Chef who creates a bespoke dining experience.
First Class features nine private First Apartments, each furnished with a reclining lounge chair and an ottoman that converts into a fully flat bed. These apartments also include a 24" LCD TV monitor, a chilled mini-bar, a personal vanity unit, and access to a dedicated shower room.
The upper deck houses seventy Business Studios, each providing direct aisle access, a fully flat bed, and a 20% increase in personal space. Upholstered in luxurious Poltrona Frau leather, the Business Studios offer in-seat massage and a pneumatic cushion control system for ultimate comfort. Passengers can enjoy the luxurious Lobby located between First Class and Business Class, which features comfortable leather sofas and a staffed bar.
The main deck accommodates 415 Economy Smart Seats, designed for enhanced comfort with features such as a unique ‘fixed wing’ headrest, adjustable lumbar support, a generous seat width, and an 11.1" personal TV monitor.
Passengers in all cabins have access to the advanced Panasonic eX3 entertainment system, offering over 750 hours of on-demand entertainment, live TV, enhanced gaming options, and high-definition screens. The A380 is equipped with full mobile and Wi-Fi connectivity, along with USB and power points at every seat.
Etihad Airways is renowned for its exceptional hospitality. This commitment to service is reflected in their innovative offerings such as dedicated Food and Beverage Managers in Business Class who guide guests through the dining experience.
The launch of the A380 service to Melbourne coincides with the recent opening of Etihad’s Premium Lounge at Melbourne Airport. This impressive 800m2 lounge, designed to resemble a sophisticated restaurant and bar, is the airline’s largest outside of Abu Dhabi. It includes a private lounge exclusively for guests traveling in The Residence.
Etihad Airways has fostered strong ties with Melbourne and Victoria through strategic partnerships with organizations like Etihad Stadium, Melbourne City Football Club, Sport Australia Hall of Fame, Melbourne Recital Centre, and the Islamic Museum of Australia.
Within Australia and New Zealand, Etihad Airways offers codeshare flights with Virgin Australia and Air New Zealand, expanding connectivity from Melbourne to various destinations.
Flights to and from Melbourne can be booked through travel agents, the Etihad Airways Contact Centre, or online at etihad.com. A round trip fare for The Residence between Melbourne and Abu Dhabi starts at A$70,900 plus taxes, while a round trip between Melbourne and London in The Residence starts at A$111,200 plus applicable taxes.