Etihad Airways’ A380: Making a Comeback to New York JFK

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Etihad Airways has announced the return of its Airbus A380s to service, as reported by Wego. Starting 22 April 2024, the airline’s A380 will begin service to New York JFK. This marks a significant development for Etihad Airways, as it is the first time in years that the airline has flown the A380 to New York since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The airline recently announced an upgraded service involving a switch from Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners to the A380 on one of its two daily flights to New York. This change is expected to increase capacity by around 1,500 seats per week during the summer travel season. This move marks the second reintroduction of the A380 to Etihad’s network, following its earlier return to London Heathrow Airport in July. It also indicates a shift from the carrier’s previously cautious stance on the quadjet aircraft.

The A380 offers 486 seats across four classes: 405 in the economy (which includes 68 extra legroom seats), 70 in the upper deck’s Business Studios, nine in premium First Apartments, and a three-room suite called The Residence accommodating two passengers. The Residence provides an exclusive experience, featuring a sky shower, gourmet dining, and high tea. One-way fares for The Residence start at USD 4,500.

Before the pandemic, Etihad regularly operated A380 flights on high-demand routes such as Sydney’s Kingsford Smith Airport, Melbourne Airport, Paris Charles de Gaulle International Airport, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai. However, due to decreased demand amid the pandemic, the A380 was temporarily replaced by the carrier’s more adaptable widebody fleet, comprising a mix of A350, 787, and 777 services.