In an age when airways strive to stand out, Etihad Airways, the flag carrier of the United Arab Emirates, has indeed taken to the skies – not merely by ferrying passengers but by pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in aviation marketing. In a recent endeavour, they fused the thrill of skydiving with the elegance of an orchestra, creating a mid-air musical marvel.
This breathtaking stunt was orchestrated in collaboration with Paramount Pictures to mark the global release of the latest instalment of the Mission: Impossible franchise – “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One”. The behind-the-scenes video, which garnered the attention of millions on social media, offered viewers an awe-inspiring spectacle: an orchestra playing the iconic Mission: Impossible theme tune whilst plummeting from 13,000 feet at speeds of 120 mph.
Watch the adrenaline-charged stunt here.
Conceiving the Impossible
The idea was undeniably audacious. In partnership with their advertising agency, Impact BBDO, Etihad’s challenge was twofold: source musicians who were also adept skydivers and then trained them for this unique performance.
Weeks went into preparation. Each participating musician-skydiver committed their part of the theme song to memory, aiming for flawlessness despite the roaring winds of freefall. Custom rigging was designed for every instrument, ensuring the feasibility of playing mid-air and the skydivers’ safety – allowing them to deploy their parachutes without a hitch.
The cinematography was another logistical marvel. A seasoned skydiving videographer accompanied the orchestra in their descents, capturing every note and movement, including group sequences that necessitated precise control over their fall rates. Safety, naturally, was paramount at every stage.
The result? A trailblazing demonstration of Etihad’s brand essence, emphasizing its dedication to delivering unparalleled experiences and first-class hospitality.
A Blockbuster Connection
This awe-inspiring marketing strategy coincides seamlessly with “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One”, penned and helmed by Christopher McQuarrie. Most of this action-packed movie was shot at Abu Dhabi International Airport’s Midfield Terminal, notably a gripping action sequence atop its 315-meter rooftop.
As a cherry on top, throughout August, Etihad’s First and Business class passengers will be treated to cinema-inspired snacks and themed non-alcoholic beverages, with tantalizing names like “Mission Accomplished”, “Undercover Sipper”, “Secret Agent”, and “Thyme’s Up”.
Moreover, Etihad continues to treat its passengers with a dedicated “Mission: Impossible” channel on E-BOX, their in-flight entertainment system. This channel will feature six movies from the franchise and exclusive behind-the-scenes content from “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One”.
In a world of conventional marketing, Etihad’s high-flying orchestral feat has set a benchmark, echoing the airline’s commitment to innovation, daring, and unforgettable passenger experiences.
Written by: My Thanh Pham