The Abu Dhabi-based airline has opened a new lounge for its premium customers conveniently situated opposite the gates Etihad Airways will most commonly use for flight departures.

To celebrate the move Dannii Minogue, a judge from the hit television show X-Factor, welcomed the first Etihad passengers personally and chatted with them at length as they checked in for their flight at the airline’s new dedicated check-in facilities.

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad’s chief commercial officer, said: “The new Etihad check-in facilities and lounge are among the best available at London Heathrow. Passengers will now receive world-class service from the moment they enter the terminal through to their flight with Etihad to more than 55 destinations around the world. Etihad is committed to delivering the best airline experience in the world and we look forward to welcoming our customers to our new Heathrow home at Terminal Four.”

Colin Matthews, chief executive of Heathrow, said: “We are delighted to see Etihad Airways settle in Terminal 4. We are investing ?200 million at Terminal 4, rebuilding many parts of the terminal, providing passengers with a new, modern airport building that offers improved facilities and higher standards of service.”