Etihad, the airlines established in 2003, is a rapidly growing airline from the UAE which defines standards in luxury with its wonderful offerings for all passengers. Our experience was certainly exciting but how does it line up with its close competitor – Emirates?
Short Answer: Below Expectations…
Long Answer:
Etihad is an international airline within the U.A.E.
Emirates is too!
And if you’ve flown with Emirates before, you know how incredible their service is. Well, don’t expect the same from Etihad.
For a change, during one of our recent visits, we chose Etihad for our airlines.
Initially, I thought I could expect the same incredible features as Emirates including:
- Lots of leg space
- Comfortable seating and headrest
- Enjoyable entertainment system
- Reasonable food
- Wonderful cabin crew
Etihad Experience
As I entered, I felt very welcomed through the Etihad theme music and the cabin crew. We were seated quickly and the plane took off on time (The airlines don’t have control of when to take off).
In terms of the journey, we had a pleasant one, with a smooth takeoff and landing, along with some mild turbulence which caused a bit of swaying.
However, the “Etihad experience” was less comfortable than Emirates.
General Points
The seats were comfortable with head support, however, they weren’t adjustable; they were locked in that position disabling you to slide it up or down. Although they had side rests to lean your head against in sleep. They had plenty of leg space though, which I was happy about. In comparison, Emirates’ seats on average are an inch longer and wider, providing extra comfort.
Entertainment System
The entertainment system was a smaller screen and lacked a smooth user experience. There were very few options for movies or music and the user interface wasn’t smooth. Additionally, flight information could have been more detailed. On the other hand, the screens were attractive. And it could get me through 12 hours(ish) of flight journey.
If you have travelled with Emirates, you know they use the simply unparalleled ICE system which has won consistent awards for the past 14 years. It is one of the reasons Emirates is such a fun experience.
Don’t get me wrong; Etihad was good! But not as good as Emirates.
The crew don’t receive any complaints and the overall flight was an enjoyable one. Except for the theme music which frustrated me towards the end of the journey.
First Class? You’re in for a treat!
Despite the overall below expectation Economy, Etihad is recognised for its expensive yet super-luxurious first class; it has won an award for the World’s leading airlines First Class. Maybe the First Class is a different story altogether! As for me, I am saving that adventure for the future.
Locations
Etihad offers their layovers in Abu Dhabi which is around 160km away from Dubai International Airport. Abu Dhabi gave us a unique experience as it was our first afternoon-layover which allowed us to glimpse at the landscape. As both of the airports are in Dubai, the stores, architecture and services were alike however, Dubai’s International Airport was certainly grander then Abu Dhabi.
Conclusion
These points are not to say that Etihad is worse than Emirates. The fact is Emirates is 3 times larger than Etihad and is the main airlines for U.A.E. However if I had the choice, I would likely give the edge to Emirates due to their more comfortable and entertaining experience. Unless you book in advance, you won’t see a massive difference in the flight costs either.
Overall, I was satisfied with my experience however, comparing to the Ecstatic Emirates Economy, it’s below my expectations…
This is great news going forward as Etihad continues to develop and beat its competition. With newer technologies and more advanced autopilot systems, flight journeys are heading towards a “futuristic” future, with Etihad being an important contributor to the development. And as of now, the first-class adventure is parked but its definitely in my wish list!
If you’re yet to experience Etihad, just enjoy yourself! Share your opinions below.
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