Etihad Innovation Centre at APEX Middle East
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You might have seen photos of Etihad Airways’ new cabin interiors with fixtures and furnishings that look extravagant enough for a five-star hotel. There are plush leather seats, semi-private rooms and a lobby where guests can mingle by a bar. Ambient lighting and accent pillows set the mood for relaxation. Now, attendees of the APEX Middle East Conference in Abu Dhabi will be able to experience these luxuries first-hand in a tour of Etihad’s Innovation Centre.
The tour walks guests through the airline’s different classes. In economy, there are Smart Seats with fixed wing headrests and adjustable lumbar support. The Business Studio is designed to provide business travelers with ample workspace and an ottoman that pulls out into a bed. In the First Suites and First Apartments, there is the addition of privacy screens and sitting room for a companion.
Etihad outdoes its own standards of luxury with the introduction of The Residence, a class beyond first class. Described as “the only three-room suite in the sky,” it features a sitting room with a loveseat, a bathroom with a full shower and a bedroom with a double bed. Included in the price of the ticket, are a chef and a butler who will dote on your every need throughout the journey.
Beside the mock-up cabins is the Training Academy where crewmembers go through a six-week training program in first aid and handling turbulence, as well as learning the Etihad standards of presentation and service. Some crewmembers receive additional training in wine tasting and others train as Flying Nannies who are knowledgeable in child psychology and have the ability to perform face painting, run coloring contests and show children how to fashion a hat out of a paper cup.
“As the world’s leading airline, we are always at the forefront of innovation,” said Peter Baugmgartner, chief commercial officer. “The new state-of-the-art facility creatively demonstrates our remarkable product and service, and embodies the vision for the future of Etihad Airways and the Etihad Experience.”
Do not miss this unique opportunity to tour the Etihad Innovation Centre at the APEX Middle East Conference, March 24-25.
Wed. March 25, 2015. 9:00 am-12:30 pm
Click here for a video of Etihad’s The Residence.