ADAT hands over modified 777 for Etihad

The work follows an agreement signed at the 2009 Dubai Air Show. This comprehensive multi-million dollar programme calls for ADAT to refresh and modernize the airline’s cabin interiors, including replacement and reconfiguration of economy class seats and galley areas, as well as upgrading the existing in-flight entertainment (IFE) system to the latest Thales i5000 on all six of Etihad’s long-haul Boeing 777 aircraft and 10 of their Airbus A320 aircraft.  

“Cooperation with ADAT is part of our endeavor to ensure the most reliable operation and to provide regional & international connectivity across continents. The commitment and expertise of ADAT will facilitate our growth plans and strengthen our position in this tough aviation environment”, said Werner Rothenbaecher, EVP of Etihad Technical Services. ADAT has clearly demonstrated that they have the resources, capability and expertise required, to meet both management and customer expectations as a leading maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) organization”.  

“The trust that an award-winning carrier such as Etihad Airways is placing in ADAT goes a long way in proving the depth and reliability of our technical services. This is the second B777 aircraft to leave our hangars and re-enter into service, and Etihad’s stamp of approval is a testament to the quality, efficiency and dedication of ADAT’s skilled engineers and technicians,” said Juergen Haacker, ADAT’s Chief Operation Officer.  

“Today marks a major milestone, and we look forward to completing the rest of this retrofit programme on a similarly successful note.”  

The remaining four Boeing 777 aircraft will be retrofitted and redelivered to Etihad Airways before the end of 2010, while the A320 aircraft continue to undergo extensive cabin modifications at ADAT’s state-of-the-art hangars in Abu Dhabi and are also expected to be completed before the end of the year.