Etihad Airways operated its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner for the first time from Abu Dhabi to Shanghai

The new Dreamliner features the airline’s next-generation business and economy class cabins, and will operate with 299 seats, 28 in Business class and 271 in economy, representing a 14 percent capacity increase on the route.
To mark the inaugural service, guests were presented with commemorative certificates in Chinese and English, featuring Shanghai’s landmark, the Oriental Pearl Tower.
Peter Baumgartner, CEO, Etihad Airways, said: “Since launching flights between Shanghai and Abu Dhabi four years ago, we have experienced first-hand the huge growth of China’s outbound tourism market and enjoyed strong demand from both business and leisure travelers. The decision to upgrade to the Boeing 787 reflects the importance of Shanghai and China to the airline.”
The airline’s guest experience begins well before departure and lasts long after arrival. For example, its chauffeur service is available in over 30 cities globally, including Beijing and Shanghai.
On the aircraft, the business studios offer direct aisle access, a fully-flat bed of up to 80.5 inches long, and an increase of 20 percent in personal space.
Business guests also have access to three choices of main course on the menu, with a dine-on-demand option for travelers who wish to choose when to eat.
For inflight entertainment, Etihad Airways currently operates the latest Panasonic eX3 IFE system on its flagship fleet of Boeing 787s and Airbus A380s.
For economy passengers, the airline’s smart seats provide enhanced comfort with a unique "fixed wing" headrest, adjustable lumbar support, a seat width of approximately 19 inches and an 11.1-inch personal TV monitor on each seat.
Shanghai is the seventh destination in the world to be served by Etihad Airways’ B787-9 Dreamliner aircraft with the aircraft also deployed to Perth, Brisbane, Singapore, Washington DC, Zurich and Dusseldorf.

Source: Arab News