Etihad Airways Starts B787 Dreamliner Service to Johannesburg

Etihad Airways’ Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner recently made its inaugural flight from Abu Dhabi to Johannesburg, South Africa.

The B787-9 Dreamliner will operate daily on the route and features two-class configuration – Business and Economy Class.

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways Chief Executive Officer, said that growing numbers of business and leisure passengers travelling to and from South Africa led to the decision to upgrade to the Dreamliner aircraft on the Johannesburg route.

“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,” he said.

John Friel, Etihad Airways General Manager South Africa, 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.”

The airline’s B787-9 Dreamliner aircraft has 28 Business Studios and 271 Economy Smart Seats. The Business Studios all offer direct aisle access and a fully flat bed of up to 80.5 inches long. The Business Studio is equipped with an in-seat massage and pneumatic cushion control system.

The 271 Economy Smart Seats provide ‘fixed wing’ headrest on each seat, adjustable lumbar support, and a seat width of approximately 19 inches.

Johannesburg is the ninth city to be served by Etihad Airways’ B787-9 Dreamliner. Brisbane, Düsseldorf, Perth, Riyadh, Shanghai, Singapore, Washington DC and Zurich are other routes where the aircraft is deployed.

The Gulf carrier’s flight EY604 will leave Abu Dhabi at 10.15am and arrive in Johannesburg at 4.45pm. The return flight EY603 will take off from Johannesburg at 7.50pm and land at down Abu Dhabi airport at 6.10am.