Formed in 2003 and based out of Abu Dhabi, Etihad Airways fly to an extensive list of destinations linking Europe to Asia, Australasia and the rest of the world. So why would we recommend Etihad Business Class flights for your long-haul journey? Read on to find out...
Via their hub in Abu Dhabi, Etihad fly to a variety of destinations across Asia and Australasia. If you’re headed to Australia, why not break your long-haul flight with a stopover in Abu Dhabi to soak up some sun and stretch your legs? Etihad opens up the land ‘down under’ with regular flights focusing on the popular cities of Melbourne, Perth and Sydney.
Loyal to their “flying reimagined” slogan, Etihad has invested heavily in your travelling comfort. From their First Class cabin “The Residence” at the forefront of luxury, to the onboard bar and worldwide lounges available to First Class and Business Class passengers, Etihad makes travel comfortable and easy.
If you’re travelling in Economy, you’ll also notice some differences. With their fully redesigned seating, you’ll enjoy a 32-inch seat pith with a unique headrest adding to your comfort. With newly designed uniforms, the crew will continue to provide the service that this year keeps them in the top ten airlines of the world.
If you’re travelling with your little angels the journey always feels longer than expected. Why not make use of Etihad’s unbelievably cool Flying Nanny service? Each Flying Nanny helps take the load off of parents during the flight, offering you some respite and time to rest. Nannies are fully equipped with all sorts of entertainment for the little ones. They will help you get them settled for bed or simply keep them occupied with a special goodie bag full of games!
Other perks of travelling with infants is the ability to pre-book bassinets and complimentary strollers for the little ones in selected airports.
Etihad’s credentials as a luxury airline are proven; they received a number of commendations at the 2016 Skytrax World Airline Awards; World’s Best First Class, Best First Class seat and Best First Class onboard catering.
The Business Class perks begin before you even reach the plane; a free chauffeur service dedicated fast check-in and 5-star premium lounges worldwide.
Uniquely, Etihad’s Business Class cabin has been redesigned into ‘Business Studios’, each of which offers even more room to relax and enjoy the flight. Flying on their state of the art A380 in Business Class gives you uncompromised functionality, comfort and space – to a standard which we think is comparable to some other airlines’ First Class cabin.
The 22” wide Business Class seat converts into a covetable, 6’ 8”, fully-flat bed. In addition, all studios benefit from a decent amount of storage and privacy, plus every seat benefits from direct aisle access.
At your seat, you’ll be treated to little touches like in-seat massages, mood lighting and a turn-down service, all of which just serve to remind you of the level of service that’s on offer. In-flight entertainment is extensive, with each 18-inch screen providing a plethora of shows, film and music.
Flying Business Class on the A380 gives you the opportunity to visit ‘The Lobby’; a hotel-inspired lounge area located on the upper deck, with plenty of space for relaxation, socialising and leg-stretching during your flight.
Dining in Etihad Business Class gives you access to a boutique wine list, award-winning menus (available at any time) and even a food and beverage manager to help personalise the entire experience to your specific requirements and preferences. You’ll find the whole cabin experience is tailored to your timetable with the option to dine as and when you please. You can make more of the journey with time and space to nap, work or just watch a whole film uninterrupted.
Passengers travelling in First Class can expect more of the best, with services of an inflight chef and access to the a la carte menu. On the A380, you’ll have your own apartment complete with a wide armchair, ottoman and TV, plus space to walk around. With your own chilled drinks, wardrobe, stylish loungewear, cotton sheets and a duvet, you’re guaranteed good rest and can freshen up with a shower in the First Class bathroom when you awake.
The dividers between apartments can be lowered if you’re travelling with a companion or children, and there’s enough space to dine together. In the older A330, A340 and B777 cabins, you’ll be able to experience the first class suite, with enhanced privacy behind closed doors.
Pioneering premium cabin comfort on the A380. Etihad has created a class above First called ‘The Residence’; a three-room suite consisting of a lounge, bedroom and shower room accommodating two guests.
The living room comes complete with a leather sofa and 32” TV. When it comes to sleeping, you can look forward to a comfortable night with a super king-size bed, fine Italian linen and a turn-down service. You’ll also have a private, en-suite shower room complete with robes and all amenities.
From booking, through check-in and onboard, every detail of your journey will be tailored to your comfort. A personal chauffeur will collect you and take you for your private check-in. During the flight, you’ll be waited on by a Savoy-trained Etihad butler and a personal chef who will prepare fresh meals of your choosing. For any help assistance at your destination, the VIP concierge is on hand; from restaurant bookings to theatre tickets.
In summary, Etihad offers a fantastically generous service, providing state of the art comfort and luxury on all of its many routes. The airline has nailed the finer touches which all come together to offer one of the best Business Class experiences available today.
If you’re thinking of planning an escape to Asia and Australia, or even across to the Americas, Etihad can ensure your journey is pleasurable, stress-free and cost-effective. Our travel consultants can help you choose the best flights and connections, book convenient transfers and provide advice on all cabins, to ensure your trip goes smoothly from start to finish. To start planning your Etihad flights, call us on 1273 320 580 or make an enquiry by email.
To speak to us about Business Class flights, please contact our specialist business class department on 01273 224 535 or get a Business Class quote by email.
Senior Sales Consultant
Adam’s university days studying Geography set the scene for his early travel plans. Leaving the UK behind for three and a half years, he travelled through the Americas and spent a year living in Costa Rica before heading to the South Pacific islands. A passion for water sports including surfing and sailing encouraged him to undertake his greatest endeavour; a 2-man crossing of the Pacific Ocean which took 8 months and visited 6 countries including Fiji, French Polynesia and Tonga. He joined Travel Nation in 2012 as a round the world specialist and is now one of our Air Product Experts.