Business Bureau, Gulf Today

A state-of-the-art Etihad Airways Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner touched down in Lagos this morning after its inaugural flight from Abu Dhabi. Etihad Airways flight EY673 took off from Abu Dhabi at 2.35am and arrived on schedule at 7.10am local time. The return flight EY674 departed Lagos at 8.30am this morning, and is due to touch down back in the capital at 7.10pm this evening, 2 August.

The two-class B787-9 Dreamliner features Etihad Airways’ next-generation Business and Economy cabins configured with 299 seats - 28 Business Studios and 271 Economy Smart Seats.

Robin Kamark, Etihad Airways Chief Commercial Officer said: “We are delighted to upgrade to the Dreamliner aircraft on the Lagos route to further enhance the guest experience and to meet the needs of the growing numbers of business and leisure passengers travelling to and from Nigeria’s largest city.

“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.” Etihad Airways’ service to Lagos was inaugurated in July 2012. The route has proved very successful for the airline, recording consistently strong demand to and from both cities.

The Etihad Airways Boeing 787 Dreamliner Etihad Airways’ modern fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft features innovative, award-winning cabin designs and products, complemented by the airline’s acclaimed service and hospitality offering. Flights to Lagos include Food and Beverage Managers in Business Class and a Flying Nanny in Economy Class to provide extra specialised care for families with young children.

The Business Studios offer direct aisle access, a fully-flat bed of up to 80.5 inches in length, and an increase of 20 per cent in personal space.