Etihad Airways Improves Guest Sleep Experience With COCO-MAT

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, recently launched an exciting new program to improve sleep quality on its long-haul flights.

A core part of Etihad Airways’ sleep initiative is the introduction of luxury all-natural bedding by COCO-MAT in Diamond First Class. Athens-based COCO-MAT, widely considered the world’s leading manufacturer of sustainably sourced sleep products, has designed an exclusive multi-layered sleep system mattress for Etihad Airways’ Diamond First Class suites.

The unique mattress is made from extracts of the Hevea tree, a healthier alternative to standard petroleum-based foams. This natural rubber is known for its elasticity and is perforated with tiny holes to create a perfect ventilation system, enabling the material to breathe and regulate body temperature. The new bedding set features a 100 percent cotton fitted sheet and a large down feather duvet and pillow. Etihad Airways is the only airline in the world to provide this bespoke product.

Paul Efmorfidis, founder of COCO-MAT; Anna Brownell, Etihad Airways’ Head of Product Development and Innovation; Dr Yousef Abou Allaban, Managing Director of the American Center for Psychiatry and Neurology.

The airline aims to enhance the sleep experience by focusing on the senses of touch, sight, sound, aroma and taste. Fine cotton Heather Grey sleepsuits, unique pillow mist, pulse point oil and a selection of Bergamote 22 toiletries by New York brand, Le Labo now feature as part of its First Class sleep amenities. High quality comforters, blankets, pillows are provided in Pearl Business Class and Coral Economy Class respectively, along with unique Sougha amenity kits, inspired by traditional Emirati artisanal designs in all classes.

To minimize the effects of ambient cabin sounds, Etihad Airways provides noise cancellation headphones in all three classes. Furthermore, to counteract harsh light, all cabins feature advanced mood-lighting systems.

Home comforts such as a sleep-time beverage service including hot chocolate and herbal teas are to be offered in all three classes.

Aviation Health

Since July 2012, Etihad Airways has been working closely with a panel of sleep experts from the American Center for Psychiatry and Neurology (ACPN) in Abu Dhabi to research ways to enhance sleep in-flight. The airline has received expert guidance from the ACPN on sleep hygiene and on-board wellbeing, and has developed comprehensive guidelines for sleep in-flight, created for the airline’s guests as a result of clinical studies carried out by the ACPN on patients experiencing effects related to long-haul flying.

Information about Etihad Airways’ Sleep Program can be found by visiting www.etihad.com/comfortzone.