Etihad Airways Unveiled its New Economy Class Soft Furnishings and Dinnerware

Etihad Airways, the UAE’s national carrier, has unveiled its new Economy class soft furnishings and dinnerware, which will be introduced in the fourth quarter of this year. The new items were created with the primary goals of increasing sustainability and improving the guest experience. The announcement was made on the first day of the Arabian Travel Market, a travel and tourism trade show taking place in Dubai this week.

All Economy passengers will benefit from improved soft furnishings, including a 35 percent larger cushion with a 200 thread-count cotton cover created in the UAE. For additional comfort on all flights, a soft blanket made from recycled plastic is provided.

Etihad’s new dining experience includes reusable dinnerware made from recycled high-quality plastic that replaces single-use plastic. A closed-loop recycling system includes the tray, serving plates, and lids. They are collected, washed, ground, and reused at the end of their lives to manufacture new replacement items.

Etihad is also adding high-quality stainless-steel silverware in the Economy cabin, which will improve the experience while also reducing the usage of single-use plastic.

Etihad announced in 2019 that by the end of 2022, it will eliminate 80 percent of single-use plastic from its operations, and the launch of this new inflight equipment will help the airline accomplish that objective. Etihad is also going toward locally manufactured commodities where possible, which will help to reduce the company’s total environmental effect.

Executive Director of Guest Experience, Brand, and Marketing, Terry Daly, said: “Etihad is trailblazing when it comes to sustainability in aviation. Following extensive research and development through our eco-flights over the past few years, we’re proud to reveal the first in a series of enhancements to our inflight experience. Our commitment to sustainability doesn’t come at a compromise to the quality and thoughtfulness behind Etihad’s guest experience, and these innovative new products will further improve our offering. We look forward to rolling out this new experience across the fleet towards the latter part of the year.”

Etihad Economy is known for its large Economy seating, which has the airline’s unique fixed wing headrest, which provides optimal support for a comfortable flight. The airline also offers Economy Space seats, which adds an extra 4″ of legroom to every passenger who chooses this option. In addition, Etihad passengers can pay an extra price for neighbor-free Economy seating, which provides more privacy and comfort.

This new launch comes after the airline’s recent announcement of its new Warner Bros. aircraft. In February, WorldTM Abu Dhabi will roll out customized children’s packets across its fleet. The new Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, which started service in March and is the first of five A350-1000s to join Etihad’s fleet this year, was then unveiled. Etihad’s new interior cabin design, which includes state-of-the-art Economy and Business class seating, is featured on the A350-1000.