Etihad First Suites

Plush surroundings, impeccable cuisine and personalised service on a narrowbody aircraft

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ETIHAD AIRWAYS HAS always known how to make a statement.

Its First Apartments and Residence once set the benchmark for airborne indulgence, while the airline's Business Studio remains one of the most celebrated business class seats in the sky. With the arrival of its Airbus A321LRs, the carrier has introduced another world-first: the installation of just two First Suites on a narrow-body aircraft.

At a time when many airlines are phasing out first class, Etihad is committed to redefining exclusivity.

I recently had the opportunity to experience this product, from the lounge in Abu Dhabi to landing in Phuket, to see if it truly delivers on expectations. After all, can a narrow-body aircraft genuinely offer the level of indulgence that such a price point suggests?

The lounge

The journey began at Etihad's flagship lounge complex in Abu Dhabi. As a first class passenger, I had access to the intimate First Lounge located on the top floor, where the design and service set the tone for the trip. It featured dark woods, curated art and thoughtful lighting that created a calm and private atmosphere.

The à la carte dining room offered a preflight meal that felt more like fine dining than typical lounge catering. The attention to detail – ranging from barista-made coffee to staff who seemed to anticipate every need - underscored Etihad's commitment to exceptional service.