More Etihad butlers qualify for A380 Residence service

The course was conducted by the London School of Hospitality and Tourismat the University of West London, in conjunction with the legendary Savoy Hotel.

The Abu Dhabi-based team of 12 men and women, who have all worked as food and beverage managers on board Etihad Airways’ long-haul fleet, graduated this week at a ceremony held in Abu Dhabi.

The elite group of hospitality personnel are now fully qualified to perform their duties, catering to the needs of guests staying in The Residence by Etihad, the airline’s recently launched private living space on the upper deck of the airline’s fleet of Airbus A380 aircraft.

Featuring a living room, private shower room and double bedroom, the revolutionary cabin boasts the innovations and exclusive features normally associated with private jets and luxury yachts.

Linda Celestino, Etihad Airways vice president guest services, said: “These highly skilled and talented professionals have successfully completed a challenging program which has provided them with all the knowledge and the tools necessary for one of the most unique roles in the airline industry.

“They are the ultimate ambassadors for the Etihad Airways brand, and will bring to reality the airline’s vision of providing a totally reimagined travel experience for the discerning guests flying in The Residence by Etihad. We are very proud of them.”

The syllabus included a series of master classes given by the Savoy’s head butler, Sean Davoren, covering international protocol and etiquette, VIP guest care, valet skills and organising travel arrangements.

The first Etihad Airways A380 service was inaugurated from the UAE capital to London’s Heathrow Airport in December and on May 31, the airline will deploy a new A380 on one of its two daily flights to Sydney.

One of the airline’s double daily services to New York JFK will also be upgraded to the A380 on December 1.