Etihad Airways unveiled the «Sustainability50», the first Airbus A350-1000 in its fleet, on its inaugural flight between Abu Dhabi (AUH) and Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG). The aircraft, registered A6-XWB, is the first of its type to operate for the airline, which will take delivery of another four units this year.
The aircraft wears a unique livery commemorating the 50th anniversary of the United Arab Emirates’ independence. It is also part of the Sustainability50 program, which aims to develop the company’s sustainability actions. In this regard, Etihad aims to «achieve net zero carbon dioxide emissions» by 2050.
The initiative, product of a partnership between Etihad, Airbus and Rolls-Royce, the model’s engine manufacturer, began in 2021. The airline’s A350s will be used for testing new procedures and technologies aimed at reducing emissions. Etihad was already working on the Greenliner, a similar program on its Boeing 787 fleet.
The Rolls-Royce Trent XWB used on the A350 is one of the most efficient engines currently available on the market. It consumes 25% less fuel than previous-generation twin-aisle aircraft, with a consequent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
In addition, Etihad established a formal framework with Airbus to collaborate on sustainability actions. They will work in areas such as the promotion and marketing of sustainable aviation fuel, waste and weight management, and the development of data-driven analytics.
Tony Douglas, CEO of Etihad Group, commented that the new aircraft is «absolutely incredible» and stressed the importance of its addition to the fleet. «With highly efficient fuel consumption and CO2 savings, the A350 will support our goals to reduce carbon emissions and deliver an unmatched flight experience for our guests», he added.
The new A350-1000s will operate short and medium-range routes in the second quarter of 2022. Starting in July, they will be used on long-haul routes to Chicago (ORD) and New York (JFK).
