Nov 07, 2016: Etihad Airways’ Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner touched down in Johannesburg after its inaugural flight from Abu Dhabi. Operating daily on the route, the two-class B787-9 Dreamliner features Etihad Airways’ next-generation Business and Economy Class cabins.

Johannesburg is the ninth city to be served by Etihad Airways’ B787-9 Dreamliner. The aircraft is also deployed to Brisbane, Düsseldorf, Perth, Riyadh, Shanghai, Singapore, Washington DC and Zurich. Peter Baumgartner, chief executive officer, Etihad Airways, said the decision to upgrade to the Dreamliner aircraft on the Johannesburg route was to meet the needs of growing numbers of business and leisure passengers travelling to and from South Africa. “Today’s modern traveller is constantly searching for comfort, innovation and convenience, and we aim to provide the highest standard of hospitality and technological advancements to make any journey a memorable one.” John Friel, general manager South Africa, Etihad Airways, added, “The introduction of the Boeing 787 is a welcome development that will further enhance our guests’ experience on this route. “Our luxurious Dreamliners offer a best-in-class experience, and attention to every last detail.” All Etihad Airways’ B787-9 Dreamliner aircraft feature the airline’s highly acclaimed next-generation interiors with 28 Business Studios and 271 Economy Smart Seats. In addition to full mobile and Wi-Fi service with USB and power points at every seat, the Dreamliner fleet features the latest in entertainment innovation, providing more than 750 hours of on-demand entertainment, including seven live TV channels, improved gaming and high definition screens across all cabins. Etihad Airways uniquely offers travellers from Africa the convenience of US Customs and Border Protection at Abu Dhabi International Airport. This facility, exclusive to Etihad Airways in the Gulf region, allows guests to complete immigration, customs and security clearance procedures for the USA while in transit at Abu Dhabi – avoiding lengthy queues upon arrival at US airports. Etihad Airways’ order for two variants of the B787 (-9 and -10), is one of the world’s largest for the type, totalling 71 aircraft.

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