A Miami-based businessman will be the first passenger to fly in The Residence, Etihad Airways’ US$20,000 a ticket luxury offering on its new superjumbo, the Abu Dhabi carrier said on Tuesday.

Gino Bertuccio, an aviation enthusiast who runs a cosmetics retailer in the US, is booked on the inaugural A380 flight from Abu Dhabi to London Heathrow on

December 27, 2014, Etihad said.

“I have followed Etihad Airways and I have always admired the products the airline has launched. There are going to be many firsts on this inaugural flight – new amenities, services and other innovations to try. I am excited to experience them all, though I am particularly fascinated by the butler concept,” Mr Bertuccio said. “I have huge expectations. My only wish is that the flight was longer.”

Last month, Etihad said that the cabin, featuring three rooms and a dedicated Savoy-trained butler, is already sold out for the first 10 flights.

It hopes the executive jet-like product will help lure high-end travellers from rivals including Emirates Airline, Qatar Airways and Singapore Airlines.

Last weeek, Etihad showcased its first Airbus A380 and Boeing Dreamliner 787 aircraft at an event in Abu Dhabi.

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