UAE carrier Etihad Airways has just marked two decades of flights between London and Abu Dhabi.
The airline’s first Heathrow flights using an Airbus A340 landed on 28 March 2004.
It heralded the start of three times a week flights between London and Abu Dhabi.
Etihad now operates four daily Heathrow flights from Abu Dhabi using a combination of Airbus superjumbos and Boeing Dreamliners.
Eligible guests can also use the Etihad lounge at Heathrow’s Terminal 4.
Jeremy Pollock, Etihad Airways Country Manager UK and Ireland, said: “Introducing flights from London Heathrow to Abu Dhabi was a key part of the airline’s initial strategy.”
The airline launched a year earlier.
“To celebrate 20 years since our inaugural flight is a fantastic achievement for everyone connected with Etihad Airways.”
The still new airline also expanded to Bangkok, Bahrain, Delhi, Dammam, Munich and Mumbai in 2004.
Etihad moved to its present home in Terminal 4 in 2009.
Five years later, Etihad deployed the A380 superjumbo on Heathrow flights.
Etihad is the main sponsor for EPL champions and treble winners Manchester City FC and secured naming rights for the Etihad Stadium in Manchester.
