Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Airways launches first NFT series

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has announced the imminent release of the airline’s first collection of non-fungible tokens (NFTs).

Called EY-ZERO1, the collection includes 10 3D aircraft models, each featuring a unique Etihad Airways Boeing 787 Dreamliner livery.

Introduction to EY-ZERO1
An exclusive collection of NFTs launching on July 21, 2022.
We are taking off to the digital world 🚀@arcubenft @etihadnft

understand more https://t.co/Tbks4YgBWt pic.twitter.com/pP3RclSQdZ

— Etihad Airways (@etihad) July 6, 2022

A total of 2003 limited edition collectibles to symbolize the year Etihad Airways The airline is launched and will go on sale on July 21st at 6pm UAE time. Collections include the Etihad’s Manchester City Football Club and a Greenliner-themed aircraft, among others.

“We are delighted to launch our first NFT collection, EY-ZERO1, which not only offers collectors, aviation enthusiasts and travelers unique artworks, but also real-world travel and lifestyle experiences through Etihad Airways. The benefits,” said Tony Douglas, group chief executive of Etihad Airways Group. “NFTs and other Metaverse technologies are revolutionizing the digital economy, and we are proud to be one of the first airlines in the world to explore their potential to provide additional utility to our customers.”

Buying an NFT will give the owner immediate access to a one-year Etihad VIP Silver membership, where 10 NFT holders will win free airline tickets. Owners will also have early access to the airline’s upcoming NFT collectibles as well as future Metaverse products.

The airline will be giving away 20 NFTs to those who pre-register at etihad.com/zero1 by July 16th. Each NFT is priced at $349 plus tax on etihad.arcube.io, and the sale ends on August 18th at 6pm local time. NFTs can also be purchased through the Etihad Frequent Flyer Rewards store, enabling the airline’s 7 million loyalty program members to redeem their Etihad Frequent Flyer miles for NFTs.

EY-ZERO1 will be minted on the Polygon blockchain, and Etihad Airways will partner with Aerial.is to track the NFT’s CO2 emissions. The airline will use all proceeds collected to purchase sustainable aviation fuel in 2022.

“In addition to recognizing the artistic value of our aircraft livery, our NFT collection is designed to maximize efficiency and support our wider sustainability and decarbonization efforts at Etihad Airways,” Douglas added.

Dubai airline Emirates also announced in April that it would launch NFTs and experiences in virtual worlds for its customers and employees.

read: Dubai’s Emirates to launch NFT to experience Metaverse