Etihad launches 2020 ecoDemonstrator 787 into regular service
Etihad today celebrated the inauguration of the 2020 ecoDemonstrator 787-10 aircraft into service
Following the launch of the Etihad Greenliner Program at the 2019 Dubai Airshow, and the arrival of the flagship Greenliner in January 2020, Etihad Airways today officially inaugurated the latest aircraft in its journey towards sustainability, with the pioneering 2020 ecoDemonstrator entering commercial service following a series of industry-leading test flights across the United States. The aircraft, a 787-10 registered A6-BMI, is the latest arrival to Etihad’s fleet of 39 787 Dreamliners, making the UAE national airline one of the world’s largest operators of the technologically advanced aircraft.
As the 2020 ecoDemonstrator, in partnership with Boeing, NASA and Safran Landing Systems, the Dreamliner was used as a flying testbed to accelerate technological developments with the goal of making commercial aviation safer and more sustainable. A familiar sight in the skies over the American Northwest in recent months, the uniquely branded Dreamliner, kitted out with complex testing equipment, conducted extensive research flying above Montana and between Washington state and South Carolina.
To celebrate its launch into regular service, the aircraft is fitted with a commemorative plaque highlighting its contribution to sustainability, while its fuselage still retains some of the original ecoDemonstrator flight-test branding, including the ecoDemonstrator and Boeing logos, in addition to the words ‘From Abu Dhabi for the World’, a reimagined version of the airline’s famous tagline.
“As the first 787-10 to take part in the ecoDemonstrator program, this very special aircraft stands testament to the innovation and drive for sustainable aviation that forms a core element of Etihad’s values and long-term vision," said Tony Douglas, Group Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Aviation Group. "This is in line with the tremendous strides being made by Abu Dhabi, and the UAE, in the research and development of viable solutions to combat climate change.
Etihad’s partnership with Boeing, and participation in the program with NASA and Safran, is one the UAE’s national airline is incredibly proud of. This exciting and progressive program will have a real-world impact on our industry as part of Etihad’s Greenliner Program and demonstrates Etihad’s ambitious sustainability strategy. As a prime example of industry collaboration, this aircraft is a unique example of how the aviation industry can come together for a more sustainable future.”
