Friday, July 11, 2025
Etihad Airways’ inaugural flight from Abu Dhabi to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport marked a milestone for the airline. As part of the launch, I had the pleasure of experiencing the carrier’s business class on the Airbus A350-1000. Known for its exceptional service, modern amenities, and outstanding comfort, Etihad’s A350-1000 offers a world-class business class experience that promises much more than just a flight. Here’s an in-depth review of my experience, from check-in to arrival.
A Seamless Start: Check-In and Lounge Experience
The journey began with a chauffeur-driven BMW ride to Abu Dhabi Airport’s dedicated business and first-class terminal. Arriving at 6:30 AM, I was greeted warmly, although check-in was delayed due to my ESTA visa issues. Despite the unexpected hiccup, the staff’s hospitality was evident, and the 20-minute check-in process flew by. Once cleared, I entered the ultra-modern, spacious terminal designed for premium passengers.
Etihad’s first-class lounge was a highlight. While business-class passengers share some amenities, the first-class lounge exuded exclusivity. With à la carte dining options and a tranquil atmosphere, it set the tone for the journey ahead. Though I didn’t indulge, the quality of the menu was impressive, and the cappuccino I chose was excellent.
Efficient U.S. Pre-Clearance and Boarding
One of the standout features of Abu Dhabi’s airport is the U.S. pre-clearance facility. Unlike other international flights, Etihad’s pre-clearance process allows passengers to enter the U.S. as domestic travelers. This streamlined experience saved me valuable time and hassle.
After clearing customs, I retreated to the smaller premium lounge in the pre-clearance area, which had a slight crowd but offered a comfortable rest. Soon, it was time to board the inaugural Etihad flight to Atlanta, with a grand celebration at the gate. The moment was special as I boarded seat 14K in the business cabin of Etihad’s Airbus A350-1000.
Business Class Cabin: Comfort and Privacy
Etihad’s A350-1000 business class cabin features 44 Collins Aerospace Vector suites in a 1-2-1 configuration, offering direct aisle access for every passenger. My seat, 14K, was perfectly positioned, with two large windows providing plenty of natural light. Each suite has a privacy screen that slides for added seclusion, which most passengers utilized during the flight.
The seat itself transforms into a fully flat bed that stretches to about 6’6”. Despite not needing the bed on this daytime flight, it was clear that Etihad’s A350 was built for comfort. Storage space was ample, with several compartments for personal items. The suite was pristine, with easy-to-use controls and thoughtful amenities like USB chargers, a phone charger, and a reading light. The only minor complaint was the awkward position of the coat hook.
In-Flight Entertainment and Connectivity
The in-flight entertainment (IFE) system on Etihad’s A350-1000 is top-tier, featuring an 18.5″ high-definition touchscreen. The selection of movies and TV shows was decent, though not as expansive as some might expect on long-haul flights. However, moving maps and camera views added a fun touch to the journey.
Wi-Fi is available on this flight with two levels: texting (free for loyalty members) and unlimited ($19.99 for the entire flight). I opted for the free texting service, which was reliable for messaging, though not suited for sharing large media like photos.
Dining and Service: A Culinary Delight
The dining experience was an absolute standout. I opted to eat soon after takeoff, and within 90 minutes, the meal service began. The beetroot and ginger soup, followed by the sea bass, were some of the best dishes I’ve had in the air. The fish was fresh, tender, and flavorful—definitely a highlight.
The dessert, a flangipane, was moist and delicious. Throughout the flight, I was able to order additional food, including fluffy pancakes and tandoori kebabs, both of which exceeded expectations.
The service, led by Paul from Romania, was attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly. Despite the long flight, Paul ensured everything was to my liking, adding a personal touch to the service that made the experience feel even more luxurious.
Arrival: A Memorable Welcome in Atlanta
After 14 hours and 37 minutes, our flight touched down at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport slightly behind schedule. A warm welcome awaited us with a water salute and cheering staff members. This celebratory atmosphere made the arrival feel special, and I couldn’t help but smile as I disembarked.
Navigating through the airport was quick, with minimal waiting time thanks to the pre-clearance process. It was a smooth transition from the plane to the terminal, capping off an unforgettable journey.
Conclusion: An Exceptional Business Class Experience
Etihad Airways’ Airbus A350-1000 business class provides an outstanding experience from start to finish. The modern cabin, superb service, excellent dining, and luxurious amenities make it a strong contender for one of the best business class offerings in the skies. Whether it’s the privacy and comfort of the suites or the culinary delights in the air, Etihad has created a memorable experience for passengers flying on long-haul routes. This inaugural flight to Atlanta was not only historic but also a perfect example of the airline’s commitment to excellence.
