Etihad Airways is bringing the excitement of Formula 1 to the skies with the debut of a McLaren Racing-themed Boeing 787 Dreamliner, featuring a striking new aircraft livery and an exclusive collection of limited-edition onboard loungewear.
The specially designed aircraft completed its inaugural flight from Abu Dhabi to Madrid on November 10, 2026, marking a new chapter in the partnership between the UAE’s national airline and McLaren Racing.
Operating as flight EY103, the Dreamliner departed Abu Dhabi just hours after its official unveiling at an event in the airline’s hangar. Featuring McLaren Racing’s distinctive papaya-colored branding, the aircraft is set to travel across Etihad’s international network, bringing a touch of motorsport excitement to destinations around the world.
According to Etihad, the aircraft features the world’s first racing team livery on a wide-body commercial airplane.
A Special First Flight for Passengers
Travelers aboard the inaugural Abu Dhabi–Madrid flight were treated to a collection of exclusive McLaren Racing keepsakes celebrating the aircraft’s debut.
All passengers received commemorative Etihad and McLaren Racing cards and specially branded cookies. Business Class guests were also presented with McLaren Racing caps and signed cards from Formula 1 drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
The launch comes as Abu Dhabi prepares to host the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in December, connecting the airline’s home city with one of motorsport’s most anticipated annual events.
Limited-Edition McLaren Racing Loungewear
The partnership extends beyond the aircraft’s exterior with the introduction of a limited-edition collection of Etihad and McLaren Racing loungewear for premium-cabin passengers.
Designed exclusively for travelers in Business, First and The Residence on longer flights, the collection combines Etihad’s premium onboard hospitality with McLaren Racing’s recognizable branding.
Business Class passengers will receive a comfortable crew-neck design, while First Class and The Residence guests will be offered an exclusive zip-neck variation.
Both styles feature co-branded Etihad and McLaren Racing details, accented with the racing team’s signature papaya color.
Available in sizes small through extra-large, the loungewear is designed to be worn during the flight and taken home afterward as a collectible souvenir.
The collection initially launches exclusively aboard the McLaren Racing Dreamliner through November 18, before expanding across Etihad’s long-haul fleet. The limited-time offering is scheduled to continue through the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix period in December.
Bringing Formula 1 from the Racetrack to the Runway
The McLaren Racing Dreamliner represents one of the most visible elements of the growing relationship between Etihad Airways and the British motorsport team.
With its distinctive design, the Boeing 787 serves as a traveling showcase for the partnership, taking McLaren Racing’s identity beyond the Formula 1 circuit and introducing it to airline passengers and aviation enthusiasts around the world.
For Etihad, the collaboration also creates another opportunity to distinguish its premium travel experience through exclusive amenities and special onboard offerings.
As the aircraft begins operating across the airline’s international network, travelers may have the opportunity to experience the McLaren Racing Dreamliner firsthand, whether flying to Abu Dhabi or connecting through the UAE capital to destinations across Europe, Asia and beyond.
The combination of a distinctive aircraft design, collectible onboard amenities and the excitement surrounding Formula 1 makes this a particularly interesting development for travelers who share a passion for aviation and motorsport.
For more information about Etihad Airways, its destinations and onboard experiences, visit www.etihad.com.
