Etihad launches NFT collection

Etihad Airways has announced the upcoming release of its first non-fungible token (NFT) collection.

Called EY-ZERO1, the series features 10 highly detailed 3D aircraft models, each one showcasing a unique Etihad Airways Boeing 787 Dreamliner livery.

A total of 2,003 limited-edition collectibles, symbolising the year when Etihad Airways was established, will go on sale at 6:00 pm (local time) on July 21.

Collectibles include Etihad’s Manchester City FC and Greenliner-themed aircraft, among others.

"We're excited to launch our first NFT collection, EY-ZERO1, which not only offers collectors, aviation enthusiasts and travellers a unique work of art, but provides real-world travel and lifestyle benefits with Etihad Airways," said Tony Douglas, Group Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Aviation Group. 

"NFTs and other metaverse technologies are revolutionising 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 for our customers."

Buying an NFT will give owners immediate Etihad Guest Silver tier membership for one year, with 10 NFT holders winning complimentary flight tickets. NFT owners will also be given advance access to upcoming NFT collections as well as future metaverse products which the airline has planned as part of its Web3 strategy. 

To celebrate the new collection, Etihad will be giving away 20 NFTs to people who pre-register online by July 16. Each NFT will be priced at $349 plus tax on etihad.arcube.io, and the sale will close on August 18 at 6:00 pm (local time).  

The  NFTs will also be available to purchase through the Etihad Guest Reward Shop, meaning the airline’s 7 million loyalty programme members can redeem their Etihad Guest Miles to acquire an NFT. 

EY-ZERO1 is set to be minted on the energy-efficient Polygon blockchain, and Etihad Airways will be partnering with Aerial.is to track the CO2 emissions of the NFTs. In addition to offsetting the entire carbon footprint of the project, the airline will allocate all proceeds from the collection to purchase sustainable aviation fuel in 2022.

"As well as recognising the artistic value of our aircraft liveries, our NFT collection has been designed to be as efficient as possible and support our wider sustainability and decarbonisation efforts at Etihad Airways," said Mr Douglas.

INTRODUCING EY-ZERO1
A collection of exclusive NFT’s launching 21 July 2022.
We’re taking off to the digital world 🚀
@arcubenft @etihadnft

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

— Etihad Airways (@etihad) July 6, 2022