Etihad Airways operated the first commercial flight from Abu Dhabi Internationals highly-anticipated new Terminal A on Tuesday

Etihad Airways, the official airline of the United Arab Emirates, on Tuesday, launched the first commercial flight from Abu Dhabi International's much-awaited new Terminal A. At 2:35 PM, Etihad aircraft EY224, headed from Abu Dhabi to New Delhi, departed Terminal A. With 359 passengers, the airline operated the trip aboard an Airbus A350-1000.

The first-ever passengers that created history were greeted by Etihad and Abu Dhabi International Airport and had a smooth check-in process at Terminal A. In honour of the event, all travellers, including those in Business and Economy class, were given the exclusive chance to be the first visitors to the brand-new, three-story Etihad Lounges in Terminal A.

Following a celebratory meal from a special menu in the Etihad Lounge, visitors proceeded to Gate C27, where themed décor and a photo booth were waiting to commemorate this momentous occasion.

With a ribbon-cutting ceremony that was seen by a distinguished group of visitors, including board members of Etihad and Abu Dhabi Airport and aviation executives, the ceremonial flight was formally started. Frank McCrorie, Chief Operations Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports, Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Interim CEO, and Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad, were also in attendance. Frank and Antonoaldo both delivered statements to formally welcome the airport's first visitors.

A vital component of Etihad's expansion plan, Terminal A can accommodate up to 45 million passengers a year and link Abu Dhabi with 117 international locations. The Terminal offers exclusive facilities for guests flying in Business and First to enjoy a fast-tracked, premium experience, as well as specialised check-in counters for Etihad's Economy clients. Modern biometric self-bag drop facilities are provided for every visitor who wants to benefit from a quick check-in.

The First and Business class special check-in area features a kerbside drop-off facility for guests flying in Etihad's premium cabins. Porters are available to help with bag. The vast, brand-new Etihad airport lounges provide a choice of food and drink options, a rooftop cocktail bar, several seating areas, a games room, and a family area. Many visitors will be able to board their trip directly from the Lounge because it provides direct boarding access for three planes, adding to the convenience.

Phased flights to Terminal A will begin on November 9; to guarantee the most up-to-date information, Etihad encourages all passengers to thoroughly verify their terminal information two days before to departure. Etihad is scheduled to fly from Terminal A and Terminal 3 from November 9–14. Starting on November 14 at 11 a.m., Etihad will operate from Terminal A for all flights.