On February 2, 2025, Etihad Airways marked a significant milestone by introducing its Airbus A380 service at Singapore Changi Airport (SIN). This historic debut strengthens the vital air link between Abu Dhabi and Singapore, enhancing both passenger capacity and the premium travel experience on this strategic route.
Flight EY498 took off from Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport (AUH) on February 1 at 22:31, completing the journey in just under seven hours. Upon landing in Singapore, the aircraft made its first-ever appearance at this bustling airport. The return service departed Changi at 19:44 on February 2, arriving back in Abu Dhabi at 22:33.
The Airbus A380-800, registered as A6-API, has previously served flagship routes to cities like London, New York, and Paris. Its deployment to Singapore signifies a shift towards higher capacity and more luxurious offerings, replacing the older Boeing 777-300ER and Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner that once operated on this route.
With the introduction of the A380, Etihad Airways increases weekly seat availability by over 700, marking a 28% boost from previous operations. The aircraft is renowned for its spacious interiors and ultra-premium services, providing an unparalleled travel experience.
One of the standout features of the A380 is The Lobby, an elegant lounge space located on the upper deck, exclusively reserved for First and Business Class passengers. This area allows travelers to socialize and unwind during their journey, adding a touch of luxury to the flight.
Singapore now joins an elite list of destinations in Etihad's Airbus A380 network, further solidifying the airline's commitment to high-demand routes. The UAE and Singapore share strong economic and cultural ties, and this expanded service is set to bolster business, tourism, and trade sectors, particularly in aviation, finance, technology, and energy.
Etihad Airways initially announced its A380 expansion to Singapore on August 9, 2024, coinciding with Singapore's National Day celebrations. As part of its broader growth strategy in the Asia-Pacific region, the airline is also enhancing services to Thailand, catering to the rising demand from Middle Eastern and international travelers.
The deployment of the A380 to Singapore represents a bold step forward for Etihad Airways, enhancing luxury, comfort, and capacity on a key international route. As the airline continues to refine its global network, passengers can look forward to a world-class travel experience across more destinations.