Etihad Airways’ A380 Gives Spectacular Flying Start to the Formula 1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

Etihad Airways, the UAE’s national airline, thrilled thousands of racegoers and spectators worldwide as the A380 Superjumbo took to the skies to mark the start of the Formula 1 racing season finale.

Key Highlights
- A380 Fly-Past:
Etihad’s flagship Airbus A380 performed a dramatic low-level fly-past over Yas Marina Circuit, thrilling thousands of racegoers and millions of viewers worldwide.

- Aerobatic Display:
The fly-past was accompanied by the UAE’s Al Fursan Aerobatic Team, painting the sky in red, green, and black — the colors of the UAE flag.

- Tradition Since 2009:
This aerial spectacle has been a tradition since the first Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, showcasing Etihad’s pride and connection to the event.

- Exclusive Hospitality:
Etihad Guest members enjoyed trackside hospitality at “Hospitality on the Hill,” while the F1 Village featured Etihad activations like culinary showcases, simulators, and family-friendly activities.

- Pilots in Command:
Senior Etihad pilots — Captain Adel Al Zubaidi, Captain Azizan Bin Othman, Captain Harris Kynigos, and Captain Abdulla Alafeefi — trained rigorously to execute the precision fly-past.

Broader Impact
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is not just a race; it’s a global entertainment spectacle. Yas Island, with its theme parks, shopping, waterfront, and venues like Etihad Arena, has become a premier destination for international visitors.

This event beautifully combined aviation, motorsport, and national pride — a perfect showcase of how airlines can elevate global sporting experiences.