Etihad Airways A321LR first class review

First class on a narrowbody is a first - does it meet expectations?

- JONNY CLARK

Background

Etihad has always known how to make a statement. Its A380 First Apartments and Residence once set the benchmark for airborne indulgence, while the airline's Business Studio remains one of the best business class seats in the sky. With the arrival of its Airbus A321LRs, the carrier has delivered another world first: installing two first class suites on a narrowbody aircraft.

At a time when many airlines are phasing out first class, Etihad is doubling down on the lure of exclusivity. On a recent flight to Phuket (the launch destination), I had the chance to experience the product, from lounge to landing, to see whether it really works in practice. After all, can a narrowbody truly offer the indulgence expected at this price point?

The lounge