Etihad's Final Stored A380 Returns to Abu Dhabi

Etihad Airways has flown its last stored Airbus A380 back to Abu Dhabi. The aircraft, registered A6-APB, departed Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrénées Airport in France on September 17, 2026, after more than five years in storage.

The move marks a significant step in the full revival of Etihad's A380 fleet. According to the source, Airport Spotting, this recovery means the airline is now on course to have nine Airbus A380s available for service. This is just one fewer than the ten it operated before the pandemic.

The Journey Home

A6-APB is approximately 12 years old and was delivered to Etihad in 2015. It was grounded in 2020 alongside the rest of the carrier's A380 fleet. Specialists from TARMAC Aerosave spent the last eight months preparing the giant jet for its ferry flight. The aircraft left Tarbes shortly after 9:30 AM local time.

Its arrival in Abu Dhabi does not signal an immediate return to passenger flights. The aircraft is expected to undergo further heavy maintenance there. Current plans indicate A6-APB should re-enter commercial service around January 2027.

Fleet Recovery and Routes

Etihad originally operated ten A380s, delivered between 2014 and 2017. The airline had initially suggested the model might not have a future with them post-pandemic. However, a rebound in travel demand, especially premium traffic, led to a change of heart. The first aircraft returned to service in 2023 on the Abu Dhabi to London Heathrow route.

One aircraft, A6-APA, was dismantled in 2025. The other nine, including the recently returned A6-APB and A6-APC, form the surviving fleet. Etihad currently deploys its A380s on five key long-haul routes from its Abu Dhabi hub at Zayed International Airport (AUH).

A Distinctive Interior

The Etihad A380 is notable for its lavish cabin products. The most famous feature is The Residence, a unique three-room private suite on the upper deck. The aircraft also boasts First Apartments with separate seats and beds, plus shower access for First Class passengers.

Business Studios and a lounge area called The Lobby complete the premium offerings. The main deck accommodates the majority of Economy passengers. This configuration makes Etihad's version one of the more distinctive A380s still in operation.