The 2016 Abu Dhabi Air Expo began today in spectacular fashion with two Etihad Airways’ Extra EA 330 LT Trainer aircraft conducting an aerial ribbon-cutting during an acrobatic display at Al Bateen Airport in the UAE capital.

The expo is just one event that is taking place during Abu Dhabi Aviation Week 2016, which runs until March 12. 

Other events include a two-day Global Aerospace Summit which has attracted leaders and specialists from throughout the aviation industry. It also includes exhibitions on unmanned systems and military simulations and training, and a Middle East Aviation Careers Conference and Exhibition, which will focus on the current and future recruitment needs of the Middle East aviation industry. 

James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ President and Chief Executive Officer, said: “The Abu Dhabi Air Expo serves as a global focal point and platform for showcasing the latest products and innovations within the industry, and has attracted much interest from leading aviation specialists across the Middle East and around the world.”

As official airline for Abu Dhabi Aviation Week 2016, Etihad Airways is flying in visitors from across its network, with an expected 20,000 delegates attending the various high-profile conferences and exhibitions, which feature around 300 exhibitors from more than 55 countries, and 150 aircraft on static display.

A highlight of this display includes an Etihad Airways’ Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft to showcase the innovative and award-winning products and services aboard its flagship aircraft, including its revolutionary First, Business and Economy Class cabins – which have been designed to greatly enhance the guest experience and bolster the airline’s position as one of the world’s leading airlines.

Etihad Airways is also displaying an A320 aircraft that has been re-configured to incorporate 12 lie-flat Business Class seats to cater for the requirements of the busy regional charter market.

Alongside are the two new Extra EA 330 LT aircraft that took part in the opening acrobatic display, which have just joined the fleet of trainer aircraft at the Etihad Flight College to assist cadet pilots in their training.

Visitors to the Air Expo will also be able visit the Etihad Airways stand to experience the highly acclaimed The Residence, which is exclusively available on the airline's fleet of A380 aircraft. Comprising a living room, double bedroom, separate en-suite shower room, discerning Residence guests are provided with a dedicated Savoy Academy trained Butler to look after their every need while on board.

To support the growing numbers of young Emirati students interested in pursuing a career in the UAE’s growing aviation industry, Etihad Airways also has a booth at the Middle East Aviation Careers Conference and Exhibition, which is being held for the first time as part of Abu Dhabi Aviation Week. 

In line with the theme for Abu Dhabi Aviation Week, “Building the Future of Aerospace through Innovation”, delegates to the various events are also able to tour the Etihad Innovation Centre to see the two highly detailed, life-size mock-ups of the cabins inside the airline’s A380 and B787 aircraft, featuring the new Economy Smart Seats, Business Studios, First Suites (B787), First Apartments and The Residence. Visitors are also able to view a model of the new Midfield Terminal at Abu Dhabi International Airport.