2 minute read
Etihad Airways B787 Dreamliner Business Class (London Heathrow- Abu Dhabi)
options such as fruits and yogurt, fresh baked croissants, eggs and sandwiches. For the main meal, some Arabic-inspired dishes such as mezze starters and prawn khabsa were complemented by international choices such as spicy vegetarian curry, beef tenderloin and seared chicken. An extensive wine and port menu o ers oenophiles the chance for some in-flight indulgence, in addition to free-flowing Champagne. A wide range of entertainment, from classics to the latest releases, helps to pass the time.
BACKGROUND London to Abu Dhabi is one of Etihad’s busiest routes and with the UK lifting travel restrictions, combined with a mutual recognition of vaccines between the UK and the UAE, travel demand has between the two countries has bounced back. Visitors to the UAE capital must show proof of vaccination to move around the emirate freely, so downloading the Al Hosn app prior to travel is advisable. Abu Dhabi is not open to non-vaccinated visitors, unlike the other six emirates where PCR testing is an alternative. On December 9, 2021, Etihad Airways moved from Terminal 2 to Terminal 3 at London Heathrow, applicable to all flights to and from the airport.
CHECK-IN I arrived at Heathrow T3 early, at 5am, so the airport was quiet and check-in was fast and smooth. My proof of vaccination was checked, and I was informed of the new procedures regarding ICA registration for entry into Abu Dhabi. Due to the recent terminal move, premium guests travelling on flights EY12 and EY20 are invited to the Qantas lounge, while premium guests on EY18 are invited to enjoy the British Airways lounge. When these lounges are busy, the No. 1 Lounge in Zone F is used, which is where I ate breakfast. BOARDING Fast-track boarding was e icient and stress-free.
THE SEAT I was assigned 6C, a spacious and comfortable window seat. All 32 business class seats recline to a flatbed, so you can get some sleep if you want to.
BEST SEAT The business class cabin is configured in a 1-2-1 format so choice of seat depends on personal preference. Personally, I like to sit near the window if flying alone, or in the middle block of two seats when flying with someone else.
THE FLIGHT Take o was punctual for Heathrow, just 15 minutes delayed. There were plenty of dining options throughout the flight. Breakfast included healthy ARRIVAL For business and first travellers, in addition to a fast-track immigration system, there is fast-track PCR testing with results back in three hours, which helps ensure you are out and about in no time. I was also assisted with the ICA registration (requirements to enter Abu Dhabi) by sta at the testing area as my online registration didn’t work. Luggage arrives as priority for business travellers, which means a smooth, speedy exit.
VERDICT There are plenty of reasons to fly Etihad, with service always on point and an extensive menu of high-quality dishes and a great range of entertainment options. Abu Dhabi airport is also less busy than Dubai, so Etihad is a good option when flying in and out of the UAE. Melanie Swan
BEST FOR Service
CONFIGURATION 1 - 2 - 1
SEAT WIDTH 22
SEAT PITCH 73
FLIGHT TIME 6 hours 15 minutes
PRICE AED5,000+ (US$1,361) one way
CONTACT etihad.com
