Etihad Airways has introduced the Boeing 787-9 on its scheduled daily service from Abu Dhabi to Seoul. The aircraft touched down this morning at the South Korean capital’s space-age Incheon International Airport.

The new two-class 787 Dreamliner service replaces the Airbus A340-600 aircraft previously operated on the route, and features Etihad Airways’ next-generation Business and Economy Class cabins, configured with 299 seats: 28 Business Studios and 271 Economy Smart 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. Furthermore, many of our customers on the route transit onwards through Abu Dhabi to major destinations on the Etihad network across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

"The addition of more 787 Dreamliners into our fleet has allowed us to upgrade the Seoul service so our customers can enjoy the unique Etihad experience available on this incredible aircraft, and ensuring that we maintain the competitive edge with the innovative cabin and seating designs featured onboard."

Etihad Airways’ modern fleet of 16 Boeing 787 aircraft feature innovative, award-winning cabin designs and products, complemented by the airline’s acclaimed 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 fleet is also equipped with the latest inflight entertainment system featuring over 750 hours of movies and programmes, as well as hundreds of music choices and a selection of games for both adults and children.

source:wam