Etihad Airways introducing Economy Space, a new seating option across its wide-body fleet.

By December, Etihad Airways will have retrofitted its ten Airbus A380s with the new seats, which feature an increased pitch of up to 36 inches.

The redesign increases the number of extra legroom seats in economy from 20 to 80 on this aircraft type.

Jamal Ahmed Al Awadhi, Etihad Airways head of guest experience, said: “We recognise that no two travellers are alike, and today’s customers demand more choice and personalisation during their travels.

“In response to the popularity and demand for extra legroom seats, we have reconfigured our Economy cabin to allow travellers to enhance their overall travel experience.”

In addition to modifying its A380s, Etihad Airways will have also added additional Economy Space seats to 12 Boeing 777s and 21 Boeing 787 Dreamliners by the end of 2019, increasing the total number of extra legroom seats by 560 per cent.

“While many airlines have been squeezing more seats into economy class, we continue to focus on providing our guests with exceptional products and services that meet and exceed the demands and budgets of different types of travellers,” added Al Awadhi.

Families with small children, elderly travellers and those requiring wheelchair assistance can now purchase and benefit from the extra available room available in Economy Space.