Overview

Etihad Airways, the flag carrier of the United Arab Emirates based in Abu Dhabi, has established itself as one of the major Middle Eastern carriers. With a current Skytrax rating of 4 stars, Etihad offers a range of services across different cabin classes, though recent years have seen some changes to their offerings and service standards.

Strengths

Premium Cabin Experience

Etihad is particularly known for its premium cabin offerings:

• Business Class: Spacious seats with direct aisle access and quality dining options
• First Class: On select aircraft, Etihad offers their famous “Apartments” which provide an ultra-luxurious flying experience

Long-haul Economy Experience

For economy travelers on long-haul flights, Etihad generally provides:

• Comfortable seating with reasonable legroom
• Quality blankets and pillows
• Entertainment systems with a good selection of movies and shows
• Complimentary amenity kits on longer flights (including special kits for children)
• Generally well-regarded meal service with multiple options

Abu Dhabi Hub

• Modern terminal facilities at Abu Dhabi International Airport
• US pre-clearance facility allowing passengers to clear US immigration before boarding their flight to the United States
• Opportunity for stopover programs to explore Abu Dhabi

Areas of Concern

Service Inconsistency

Recent passenger reviews indicate some inconsistency in service quality:

• Some travelers report excellent experiences while others note declining standards
• Short-haul flights may offer significantly fewer amenities than long-haul routes
• Some aircraft have been stripped of in-seat screens on short-haul routes to save fuel costs

Baggage Policies

• Strict enforcement of baggage allowances
• Potentially high fees for excess baggage
• Some economy fare types may not include checked baggage, requiring careful attention when booking

Customer Service

• Mixed reviews regarding responsiveness to issues
• Some passengers report difficulties with rebooking during disruptions
• Variable experiences with ground staff depending on location

Aircraft Fleet

Etihad operates a diverse fleet including:

• Boeing 777-300ER
• Boeing 787 Dreamliner
• Airbus A320 family (for shorter routes)
• Airbus A380 (limited routes)

The quality of your experience may vary significantly depending on which aircraft type operates your route.

Recommendations for Travelers

When Booking

• Check aircraft type: Newer aircraft like the 787 Dreamliner generally offer better comfort
• Verify baggage allowance: Ensure your fare includes sufficient baggage for your needs
• Consider connection times: If connecting through Abu Dhabi, allow sufficient time
• Compare fare types: Etihad offers various fare categories with different inclusions

Before Travel

• Online check-in: Complete this process early for better seat selection
• Loyalty program: Consider joining Etihad Guest for potential benefits
• Special meals: Request these in advance if needed
• Lounge access: Research options if you’re not in a premium cabin

During Travel

• Hydration: Middle Eastern carriers often operate in hot climates; stay hydrated
• Layover options: For longer connections, explore Abu Dhabi or consider a hotel
• Entertainment: Download backup entertainment in case of system issues
• Comfort items: Bring noise-canceling headphones for a better experience

Value Proposition

Etihad often positions itself as offering a premium experience at competitive prices compared to European or Asian carriers. While the airline has made some service cuts in recent years, it still generally provides good value, particularly for:

• Long-haul economy travelers seeking more comfort than budget carriers
• Business travelers who appreciate the Abu Dhabi hub’s efficiency
• Passengers connecting to destinations in the Middle East, Africa, or South Asia

Conclusion

Etihad Airways offers a generally positive flying experience, particularly on long-haul routes and in premium cabins. However, service standards have shown some inconsistency in recent years. When considering Etihad, research your specific route, aircraft, and fare type to ensure it meets your expectations and requirements.

For travelers prioritizing comfort and service over the absolute lowest price, Etihad remains a solid choice for routes through the Middle East, though no longer at the very pinnacle of global airline rankings.