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Etihad Airways continues to operate the Airbus A380, making it a key part of its fleet strategy despite industry trends that have seen many airlines retire the aircraft. The A380, recognized as the world's largest passenger jet with a double-decker design and four engines, was originally built for high-volume routes between major airport hubs. While other carriers retired their A380s during and after the COVID-19 pandemic in favor of more efficient twin-engine jets like the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787, Etihad has chosen to keep its superjumbo operational.
The airline first introduced the A380 in December 2014 on flights from Abu Dhabi International Airport to London Heathrow Airport. This launch included the debut of "the Residence," a three-room suite described as "the most luxurious commercial airline product ever offered to customers." The aircraft's configuration also includes first-class Apartments, business-class Studios, and economy seating.
By 2015, Etihad expanded A380 service to routes such as Sydney International Airport and New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport. The entire fleet was grounded in 2020 due to the pandemic but returned to service as demand rebounded. On July 25, 2023, Etihad resumed nonstop A380 flights to London at three daily frequencies, reinstating premium products like the Residence and increasing capacity on this busy route.
