Video: Would you pay $32k, one-way, NY-Abu Dhabi?

Etihad Airways announced the first booking on the airline’s inaugural flight between New York’s John F. Kennedy (JFK) International Airport and Abu Dhabi in The Residence by Etihad.

A company statement said that the booking for the airline’s ultra-luxurious and private three-room suite in the sky came just hours after the carrier announced the upcoming launch of new Airbus A380 service for guests traveling on the popular route, beginning 1st December, 2015.

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways’ Chief Commercial Officer, said, "New York was Etihad Airways’ first US destination and an important market for our airline.

“Since the launch of our inaugural service in 2006, we have been extremely pleased with the reception and support we have received from US consumers and the business community for the world class product, hospitality and destination offerings we provide.

“In fact, Etihad planes now operate with 85 per cent average load factors between the US and Abu Dhabi, a clear reinforcement of the high demand that exists among US consumers.

“That high demand was further reinforced with the booking of The Residence by Etihad on our inaugural A380 flight between JFK and Abu Dhabi just hours after we announced its availability.

“We look forward to welcoming guests traveling with us on board the A380, beginning December 1 and remain committed to offering customers traveling on Etihad Airways between the six markets we serve within the US and Abu Dhabi the very best hospitality experience available – across every class of service."

The Residence by Etihad, which marks a first in commercial aviation, is exclusively available on the airline's A380 aircraft.

Travel in The Residence between JFK and Abu Dhabi can be purchased for $32,000 one way, which includes one or two guests.

Among the many exclusive benefits offered to discerning Residence guests, a dedicated Savoy Academy trained Butler is available to look after their every need while on board.

Etihad Airways is the only commercial carrier to provide service for consumers traveling between US cities including Chicago, Dallas-Fort Worth, Los Angeles, New York- JFK, San Francisco and Washington DC and Abu Dhabi. 

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