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Miami-based businessman first to book Etihad Residence

Abu Dhabi: Etihad Airways has revealed that the most exclusive ticket in aviation history – the inaugural flight in The Residence by Etihad — has been booked by Miami-based businessman and aviation enthusiast, Gino Bertuccio.

Bertuccio will be the first person ever to experience the world’s only private multi-room cabin on a commercial passenger aircraft. The Residence, which features an exclusive three-room private cabin, including a living room, double bedroom and ensuite shower room, is a ground-breaking concept unique to Etihad Airways and will be available on the airline’s incoming fleet of Airbus A380 aircraft. Bertuccio will have a dedicated Savoy Academy-trained butler on call throughout the duration of his flight, which is part of the unique experience for guests who book The Residence.

Well before Etihad Airways’ first A380 inaugural flight takes off from Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) for London’s Heathrow Airport (LHR) on December 27, 2014, a dedicated Concierge team will ensure all aspects of Bertuccio’s experience are handled with the utmost personal attention, dedication and care.

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways’ chief commercial officer, said: “We are delighted to welcome Bertuccio on board The Residence by Etihad. On December 27, he will become part of aviation history as the first member of an elite group of Etihad Airways guests to enjoy the world’s most luxurious and exclusive hospitality and service experience in the air.”

Bertuccio, who runs Ligi Import Corp, said: “I have followed Etihad Airways and I have always admired the products the airline has launched. There are going to be many firsts on this inaugural flight — new amenities, services and other innovations to try. I am excited to experience them all, though I am particularly fascinated by the butler concept.”

Bertuccio, who booked the inaugural flight on etihad.com, has been passionate about flying since a very young age. A true connoisseur with deep expertise and knowledge of air travel, Bertuccio flew on his first inaugural 25 years ago and has since travelled on 22 inaugural and final flights in premium class cabins. He is an avid collector of airline memorabilia with nearly 2,000 model airplanes, as well as albums filled with boarding passes, certificates and photos from past flights.

“For the first time in my flying experience, I really don’t know what to expect but I do know that flying in the Residence by Etihad will be a truly unique adventure, the top of luxury. I have huge expectations. My only wish is that the flight was longer,” said Bertuccio.

— business@khaleejtimes.com