This new business class product is worth aiming for.
Etihad Airways has revealed its new ‘next level’ business class, with private suites setting a gold standard for premium air travel.
The product is set to be rolled out on the Airline’s 11 new Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft in the third quarter of this year, which will see a total of 32 new business class pods in the sky come the end of 2023.
Etihad’s impressive new private pods also give Virgin Australia customers more aspirational ways to use Velocity Points across the Gulf partner’s expansive international network.
Etihad Airways Chief Executive Officer Antonoaldo Neves said the business cabins will elevate passenger experiences to ‘new heights’ by continuing to improve on the existing A350 product.
“Etihad’s new 787 Dreamliner cabin interior showcases further enhancements to our award-winning and industry-renowned cabins,” Mr Neves said.
What to expect: Cabin features
You can expect a similar experience to Etihad’s Business Studio product – launched on its Airbus A350s last year – but with a bunch of additional spoils to make for an even better pointy end flight.
Feel secluded
Etihad has selected the revered Elements suite from Collins Aerospace, which features a sliding privacy door and high walls for extra seclusion.
The pods are staggered in a 1-1 configuration, with walls giving the illusion of separation from neighbors and direct aisle access adding to the all-important private feel.
Store more
The new business class pods also include more storage nooks, thoughtfully designed to allow travellers to comfortably store all their belongings and enjoy more of an open living space.
Spread out comfortably
Clever tweaks such as seat positioning create more personal space for passengers who will be able to lie flat on a lower bed and stretch their legs under the TV screens.
Be entertained
Brand new 17.3” 4K screens have Bluetooth connectivity, allowing passengers to use their own headphones.
Stay connected
Etihad’s Dreamliners will come equipped with high-speed WiFi, which Etihad Guest members can use for free online chat and messaging.
Unlimited connection on the other hand, fronts a $10 USD fee on flights under seven hours or $20 USD if you’re in the air for more than that.
You won’t be running out of charge wither, with charging ports and wireless device charging at your fingertips.
Summing up: What do we think?
As the appetite for travel increases, Etihad’s Boeing 787s will be servicing much of the Gulf carrier’s international network.
Come mid-July the Dreamliners will be joined by the Etihad Airbus A380, which will service the airline’s popular London route.
While it’s certainly not the A380 Residence, Etihad’s newly unveiled Dreamliner business suites are a prime example of premium travel continuing to head in the right direction.
What do you think of Etihad’s new 787 business class?
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