Abu Dhabi bound

Expect signature Etihad service on a Dreamliner flight from Sydney to Abu Dhabi, where comfort is key, writes Emily McAuliffe.

Flyer: Emily McAuliffe

Airline: Etihad

Class: Business

Route: Sydney-Abu Dhabi

Code: EY450

Duration: 14 hours 40 minutes

Aircraft: Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner

Seat: 6D

The cabin

The Dreamliner has 28 business class seats in a one-two-one configuration. I’m prone to motion sickness, but seated in 6D – a middle, rear-facing seat – I needn’t worry as the taxi, take-off and landing were smooth. A separation screen can be raised between the two middle seats, and some window seats have a slide panel for privacy.

The seat

The 205-centimetre bed fully reclines, and the seat slides forward, so you can reach the footrest when seated. The seat cushion can be adjusted for firmness, and there is a gentle massage function for the ultimate in relaxation. The storage compartment next to the seat fits a book, water bottle and other loose items, and there is additional storage under the footrest.

The service

Check-in at Sydney airport was swift and hassle-free. Once aboard, the cabin manager introduced himself, and a glass of Duval-Leroy Brut Reserve champagne was promptly poured. Staff are all pleasant and responsive.

The entertainment

The E-Box entertainment system includes 220 movies, eight live TV channels and a range of television shows and Android games. Magazines can be read via an eLibrary. All are accessed through an 46-centimetre touch screen, and each seat comes with noise-cancelling headphones and two USB ports.

The drinks list

The beverage list included champagne and wine sourced from France, Italy,

South Africa and New Zealand. Spirits and apéritifs included Glenlivet Master Distiller’s Reserve single malt whisky and Caorunn Small Batch Scottish gin.

The dining

I travelled during Ramadan, when Emerati chef Khaled Alsaadi had created a new menu in partnership with Etihad. The meat of the smoked duck breast (entree) and braised beef short rib (main) were flavoursome and tender.

The amenities

Guests receive a stylish Acqua di Parma bag with hand cream, a toothbrush, socks and an eye mask, along with a wellness pack including sanitiser and a snood face mask, which is comfortable for sleeping.

The baggage

There is a generous baggage allowance of 40 kilograms, plus one 12-kilogram cabin bag and a five-kilogram personal item.

The glam factor

Before taking off, champagne is served. White tablecloths are laid for dining, served with silver cutlery. Top-shelf spirits and fine wines are offered. Your seat has settings for increased comfort, from adjusting the firmness to a gentle massage to ease you into relaxation mode. Expect signature Etihad service and a myriad entertainment options. Carefully curated amenities will ensure you arrive feeling fresh, prepared to unpack and dive straight into your escape.

The checklist

Lounge Yes

Pyjamas No

Chauffeur service Yes (Mercedes-Benz)

Amenities Acqua di Parma

Signature champagne Duval-Leroy

Brut Reserve etihad.com