Etihad Airways is the National Airline of the United Arab Emirates. The airline was set up by a Royal decree in July 2003, with Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, as its hub. Etihad started commercial operations in November 2003.

Major achievements:

• The largest ever commercial aviation start-up aircraft order, announced in 2004, for 29 Airbus and Boeing aircraft.
• More than 17 million Guests carried.
• One of the youngest and most environmentally-friendly aircraft fleets, with an average age of three years.
• A record-breaking order in July 2008 for up to 205 aircraft at the Farnborough International Airshow, including firm orders for 100 aircraft.
• A record-breaking order in May 2009 for up to 469 engines at the Paris Air Show, including firm orders for 239  engines.
• Sponsorship of the Ferrari Formula 1 team, Manchester City and Chelsea Football Clubs, Harlequins Rugb Football Club, the Etihad Stadium in Melbourne and the Formula One Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
• More than 40 global awards for service and innovation including Best Business Class at the 2009 Skytrax awards. Full list of awards.

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