TRIED & TESTED_FLIGHTS
We try and test flights with Etihad Airways and Delta Air Lines
Flight Number: EY454
Aircraft: Airbus A380-800
Class: Business
Seat: 14A
Duration: 13 hours and 30 minutes Reviewed by: Katrina Holden
The cabin Business class has a 1 x 2 x 1 configuration of ‘business studios’ throughout 11 rows. Singular window seats are designed as their own ‘pods’ (business studios).
The seat Business studios are very well designed, with contemporary finishings. My window seat was incredibly private – I barely saw other passengers. Fully lie-flat beds are operated by an inset control panel about the size of a mobile phone, with one-touch seat presets for takeoff, dining, relaxing and sleep. Other functions operational from the control panel include a mix of lighting; cushion firmness; a massage function; seat recline and seat forward functions; and the window shades. There are plenty of stowage compartments and a coat hook.
Entertainment The large-screen E Box is operated by another retractable remote closer to your seat. Swipe between Movies (new, favourites, family, Arabic, Indian, European and Asian); Albums, Food & Beverage, TV, Live TV, Games, News &
Weather, Communications and Flight Path. There are adjustable language settings. The flight was equipped with Etihad Wi-Fly (for an additional fee). The noisecancelling headphones are very good quality and best of all, the jack has a magnetic function that easily connects to the console. A communal ‘Lobby’ lounge area includes leather lounges.
Service Service was sleek and professional. Staff introduced themselves by name. My table was prepared by staff before each meal. Large bathrooms were also very clean each visit. Food + Drink After a glass of Piper-Heidsieck Cuvee Brut, I enjoyed a Thai coconut and basil soup with rice noodles, with just the right amount of spice. For main, I had the sweet and sour chicken served with steamed jasmine rice, carrot and bok choy – served alongside a glass of 2017 Vasse Felix Filius Chardonnay from Margaret River, WA. Upon waking from a sleep in the flat bed, I ordered a glass of Morocan Mint Tea which came with fresh mint, sugar cubes and biscuits – it was the perfect wake-up. Breakfast options include cereals, pasties, yoghurts, steak sandwich, asparagus and a brie omelette. Amenities Business class passengers are provided with an Aqua di Parma amenity kit containing socks, eye mask, toothbrush and paste, Aqua di Parma cologne and hand cream. Baggage Maximum of 40kg (with no one baggage item to exceed 32kg).