The first Etihad Airways Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner touched down in Shanghai (PVG) earlier this month. The brand-new Dreamliner offers 299 seats, with 28 in business class and 271 in economy class. The addition increases route capacity by 14 per cent. The new flights depart Abu Dhabi (AUH) daily at 22:25, arriving in Shanghai at 11:10 the next day. Return flights depart Shanghai at 0:30, arriving in Abu Dhabi at 6:15. “Since launching flights between Shanghai and Abu Dhabi four years ago, we have experienced firsthand the huge growth of China’s outbound tourism market and enjoyed strong demand from both business and leisure travellers,” said Peter Baumgartner, CEO, Etihad Airways. “The decision to upgrade to the Boeing 787 reflects the importance of Shanghai and China to the airline.” Shanghai is the seventh international destination serviced by Etihad Airways’ 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. “The new Boeing 787 services will help to support the increasing demand for outbound tourism from Shanghai and its surrounding cities in Eastern China,” added Baumgartner. Passengers in business class enjoy business studios with direct-aisle access and 20 per cent more personal space. Each seat boasts a pneumatic cushion control system and 18-inch touch-screen entertainment centre. Business class offers dine-on-demand options in addition to a set menu. Passengers receive the Etihad Airways LUXE amenity kit and access to the Etihad Flying Nannies programme.