In this review, I look at Etihad Airways Business Class product on the A330 from Hong Kong to Abu Dhabi. This was, in fact the first leg of a two-part Etihad journey which started in Hong Kong and ended in London Heathrow. You can also read our review of the Abu Dhabi to London Heathrow in Etihad Business Class on the A380.
The Airbus for this flight was an Air Seychelles plane offering a slightly dated business class seat arrangement and cabin-staffed by Etihad. The business class cabin was at the front of the aircraft and seated about 20 passengers in a 1-2-1 layout, and every passenger had direct aisle access. The seats were very comfortable, with fully flat beds, a decent pillow, and a lovely furry blanket large enough to cuddle into and still tuck around your toes! The journey was made easy by the friendly, energetic, and professional service provided by the Etihad crew, even learning our names. The entertainment was excellent, with a plane location map, and up-to-date film, TV, and music selection. I liked the TV on a stick that you could fold to sleep. My main criticism was the lack of a camera to see the outside of the plane on takeoff and landing. The amenities bag was a useful zip bag with a toothbrush, paste, and a nice lip balm and face cream.
We were offered a selection of drinks, including champagne, while we waited for takeoff, and I had a delicious mint and orange fruit drink. Then we had champagne and assorted nuts. The catering was good, and YOU chose when you would like to dine (see menu choices below). The presentation was excellent with linen table cloth, and a good choice of wines and a bottle of water were provided. The hot apple pie and vanilla ice cream dessert were particularly tasty.
The cabin was nicely dimmed for sleeping; although I was on the corridor seat, it was spacious. I was not bothered by the crew or passengers passing (unlike British Airways Business Class on a previous flight where the bed was narrow and you felt everyone passing). Our friendly hostess gave me a present of two packs of Etihad cards at the end, which was a nice touch.
I would thoroughly recommend this flight which was excellent value for money and a delightful experience – I even slept!
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