Abu Dhabi, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – Guests travelling from New York to Abu Dhabi with Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, were treated to a surprise celebration of Diwali ahead of this weekend’s Hindu festival of lights.
Travelling on one of the airline’s flagship Airbus
A380s, they were given specially designed lanterns to mark the festival that
this year falls on 30 October. As lights in First, Business and Economy were
dimmed, guests of all ages raised their glowing lanterns transforming the
cabins into a sea of glimmering lights to celebrate Diwali in the sky. Traditional
Indian desserts such as jalebi and barfi prepared by Etihad Airways’ catering
team were served onboard.
Guests flying onwards to Mumbai, via Abu Dhabi, were
also treated to celebratory lanterns, sweets and goody bags upon arrival at
Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport that helped brighten their journey
home. Guests also have a chance during this festive period to win tickets to a
destination of their choice by posting pictures at #Diwaliinthesky of their
celebrations at home or in the air.
Diwali spiritually signifies the victory of light over
darkness, good over evil, and hope over despair. Its celebration includes tens
of millions of homes, temples and other buildings being lit up in the
communities and countries where the festivities are observed.