An expert evaluation of Etihad Airways First Class. From the A380 First Apartments to Boeing 787 suites, we examine if the experience remains elite.
In the landscape of commercial aviation, few carriers have pursued the concept of 'the residence' and 'the apartment' with as much fervor as Etihad Airways. Operating out of the Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi, the airline has positioned itself not merely as a transit provider, but as a curator of singular experiences. At Peters Signature Travel, our team has monitored the evolution of the Etihad First Class product—transitioning from the legendary but limited A380 fleet to the streamlined Boeing 787-9 and 787-10 Dreamliners that now form the backbone of their long-haul premium service.
The question remains: in an era where business class suites are increasingly sophisticated, is the step up to Etihad First Class a justifiable investment for the discerning traveler. Our recent transit from London Heathrow to Abu Dhabi aboard the Boeing 787-9 provided the necessary context to answer this query.
The premium journey begins long before the aircraft departs the tarmac. With the opening of Terminal A at Zayed International Airport, Etihad has finally secured a ground experience that aligns with its inflight ambitions. The First Class Lounge is a masterclass in architectural restraint and functional luxury. Upon entry, the sense of scale is immediate. High ceilings and a neutral palette of marble and warm wood create an environment of calm that is often elusive in major global hubs.
We found the dedicated First Class dining room to be particularly noteworthy. Unlike the self-service buffets common in lesser lounges, this is a formal affair. The menu features a curated selection of international and Middle Eastern cuisine, executed with a level of precision one would expect from a high-end city bistro. Our team noted the seared scallops with saffron foam as a standout, paired with a glass of vintage champagne that is poured with genuine attentiveness. For those requiring rest, the private relaxation suites offer actual beds, a significant upgrade over the reclining chairs offered elsewhere.
While the A380 'First Apartment' remains the gold standard for space, the Boeing 787 First Class suite is a more intimate, focused environment. There are only eight seats in the cabin, arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, ensuring an atmosphere of exclusivity. The aesthetic is 'Facets of Abu Dhabi'—a design language that utilizes geometric patterns and a sophisticated palette of gold, sand, and chocolate brown.
Each suite is fully enclosed by tall sliding doors. This is not merely a psychological barrier; it creates a genuine private sanctum. The seat itself is upholstered in Poltrona Frau leather, a detail that reflects Etihad’s commitment to tactile quality. It is wide enough to change positions comfortably throughout a fourteen-hour flight and converts into a fully flat six-foot, eight-inch bed.
What sets this suite apart is the integration of technology and comfort. The 24-inch high-definition monitor is fixed, allowing for gate-to-gate entertainment. The bedside controller is intuitive, managing everything from the lumbar support to the firmness of the Cushion. We observed that the stowage space is ample, including a chilled personal mini-bar for water and refreshments, though we find the service so proactive that its utility is largely aesthetic.
Etihad’s approach to inflight dining is governed by the 'dine anytime' philosophy. This allows the traveler to dictate the rhythm of their journey, a critical feature for those managing jet lag or sensitive schedules. The onboard chef—a role Etihad has maintained despite industry-wide cost-cutting—is available to tailor dishes to specific preferences.
The signature caviar service is the traditional opening. It is presented on fine bone china with traditional accompaniments: blinis, chopped egg, chives, and sour cream. It is a ritual observed with precision. Moving into the main courses, the menu often features a blend of traditional Emirati dishes and classic continental fare.
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