Etihad Airways Operates Iconic A380 to Maldives to Celebrate New Male Runway Opening

Press release

Published September 20th, 2018 - 04:44 GMT

The new 3,400 metre-long and 60-metre-wide runway is the first in the Maldives capable of supporting an A380.

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has marked the opening of the new runway at Velana International Airport in the Maldives by operating one of its Airbus A380 aircraft to the island nation.

The new 3,400 metre-long and 60-metre-wide runway is the first in the Maldives capable of supporting an A380. The special Etihad operation was piloted by First Officer, Ali Ahuson, who is from The Maldives.

Etihad Airways’ A380 features a total capacity of 496 seats – up to two guests in The Residence, nine First Apartments, 70 Business Studios and 415 Economy Smart Seats.

Background Information

Etihad Airways

As an airline, Etihad has come a long way in a short time – just like its home Abu Dhabi.

The airline was established by Royal (Emiri) Decree in July 2003 and is wholly owned by the Government of Abu Dhabi with a mandate to operate safely, commercially and profitably.