Etihad Airways Review: Is Etihad Airways a Good Airline?

Enclosed Business Class suites, a three-room apartment in the sky aboard the A380… Etihad Airways has plenty to get travellers dreaming. But in 2026, it made headlines for another reason: AirlineRatings named it the world’s safest full-service airline!

Thinking of flying with Etihad on your next trip to Asia or the UAE?

Trip.com covers everything you need to know, from flights departing from the UK to cabin classes, baggage allowances and the frequent flyer programme.

Etihad Airways: UAE's National Airline

Founded in 2003, Etihad Airways is the national airline of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is much younger than its main rival, Dubai-based Emirates, but has caught up remarkably quickly.

Its main hub is Abu Dhabi, at Terminal A of Zayed International Airport, which opened in late 2023. One thing worth knowing is that Etihad is not a member of any major airline alliance. It does not belong to SkyTeam, Star Alliance or oneworld.

The airline is also expanding rapidly. Hong Kong, Hanoi, Prague, Warsaw and Atlanta were among the routes launched in 2025. Here are some key figures:

• 22.4 million passengers in 2025, nearly 4 million more than in 2024.
• Record profits of AED 2.6 billion (around £540 million) in the same year, its highest ever.
• One of the youngest fleets in the industry, with an average aircraft age of around eight years and a target of more than 200 aircraft by 2030.

Etihad Airways Flights from the UK

London Heathrow is Etihad's main UK gateway. For the winter 2026–2027 season, the airline's schedule includes daily flights between London Heathrow and Abu Dhabi, with aircraft types and frequencies varying by date.

Another important point is that Etihad's flight times are designed to make connecting journeys easier. Morning departures from London can arrive in Abu Dhabi in time for onward flights to Asia, while evening departures may arrive early the following morning. Check the timetable when booking, as departure and arrival times vary by date.

Where can you fly next? Popular onward destinations include Bangkok, Phuket, Kuala Lumpur, Hanoi, Colombo and Bali. Fares vary by destination and travel date, so compare the latest prices on Trip.com before booking.

Another benefit to check is travel insurance. Do not assume that medical insurance is automatically included with every Etihad flight; review the airline's current terms and your own travel insurance policy before departure.

Etihad Economy Class: What to Expect on Board

In Economy Class, Etihad has nine seats per row on its A350-1000 and Boeing 787 aircraft, with a standard seat pitch of around 79 cm (31 inches). This is typical for long-haul flights.

For an extra fee, Economy Space seats on the A350-1000 offer around 90 cm (35 inches) of seat pitch. There are only 45 of these seats per aircraft, so it is worth booking early. On a long journey from London to Bangkok with a stopover, the extra legroom can make a real difference.

Pros:

• Modern aircraft, with clean, quiet cabins and responsive seatback screens.
• Free in-flight messaging, provided you are an Etihad Guest member and sign in before using the service.
• The option to pay for extra legroom without upgrading to a higher cabin class.

Cons:

• Economy Basic does not include checked baggage.
• Standard legroom is average for long-haul flights.
• Customer service may be difficult to reach during major disruptions, as reported in spring 2026.

Business Class, First Class and The Residence: Etihad Airways' Premium Cabins

Business Class

On the A350-1000, which is scheduled to return to the London route this winter, Business Class features 44 suites in a 1-2-1 layout, each with a sliding door and a fully flat bed measuring 2 metres long. It is one of Etihad's newest Business Class products. However, there is no First Class cabin on board.

First Class

The Boeing 787-9 offers a more varied experience. On older aircraft, you'll find Business Studios in a staggered layout, with some seats facing backwards. Refurbished aircraft feature more modern suites with doors. Some 787s also have eight enclosed First Class suites.

The Residence: Etihad's private suite

And then there's the A380, still the most impressive aircraft in Etihad's fleet. Upstairs, the First Apartments feature separate armchairs and beds. The Residence takes luxury a step further, offering a private three-room suite with a living room, bedroom, shower room and personal butler. Sounds incredible, doesn't it? Of course, it comes at a premium price.

Etihad Airways Baggage Allowance: What You Can Bring

On flights to Europe, Etihad counts in kilos, not by the number of bags. You can distribute your allowance however you like, as long as you don't exceed 32 kg per bag.

Baggage allowances may vary by route and ticket conditions. Check your booking confirmation for the allowance that applies to your flight.

Etihad Guest: Are the Miles Worth It?

Etihad's own loyalty programme is called Etihad Guest. It has four tiers that you can reach by flying:

• Bronze when you join
• Silver (25,000 Tier Miles)
• Gold (50,000 Tier Miles)
• Platinum (125,000 Tier Miles)
• A fifth tier, Emerald, is reserved for travellers who spend at least US$150,000 a year with Etihad.

Good news for existing members: until 31 March 2027, you need 25% fewer Tier Miles to qualify for or retain Silver, Gold or Platinum status. This is one way the airline is making up for periods of disruption.

If you're a UK traveller, note that Etihad and Air France-KLM ended their partnership in spring 2025. Codesharing stopped on 29 March, followed by combined ticketing on 15 April. You can no longer rely on earning Flying Blue Miles on Etihad flights.

Etihad Airways Safety and Passenger Reviews

When it comes to safety, Etihad Airways is also considered one of the world's leading airlines. It has never had a fatal accident, and its fleet is among the youngest in the industry. AirlineRatings ranked it first in its 2026 rankings, up from fifth place the previous year. The site praised the airline's approach to managing turbulence in the cabin.

Is Etihad Airways a Good Airline?

Yes, as long as you know what to look for:

• For flights from the UK to Southeast Asia or the Indian Ocean: Connections via Abu Dhabi can be convenient, fares can be competitive, and a free stopover in Abu Dhabi can be an added bonus.
• For Business Class: Look for flights operated by the A350-1000, which features enclosed suites throughout the Business Class cabin, rather than the 787, where the seat configuration varies by aircraft.
• If you collect Flying Blue Miles: Etihad Airways flights generally do not earn Flying Blue Miles, so check the latest partner and earning rules before booking.
• If you need to travel on a fixed date: Choose a fare that allows changes and leave enough time for your connection.

Etihad vs Emirates vs Qatar Airways: Which Should You Choose?

The three Gulf airlines have a lot in common: major hubs, global route networks and modern long-haul aircraft. However, a few key factors can help you decide which is best for your trip.

• Skytrax rankings. Qatar Airways came second in the 2026 rankings, while Emirates ranked sixth. Etihad did not make the top 20.
• Safety. Etihad came first in AirlineRatings' 2026 safety rankings, ahead of Qatar Airways and Emirates.
• Airline miles. Qatar Airways is part of the oneworld alliance, so eligible flights can earn or use Avios through programmes such as British Airways Executive Club. Etihad and Emirates are not members of a major global airline alliance.
• Stopovers. Etihad offers hotel stays for eligible passengers on stopovers in Abu Dhabi, subject to its terms and conditions. Dubai and Doha are also worth exploring during a stopover, although the options and benefits vary by airline.

For the same journey from the UK to Asia, fares across the three airlines can be fairly similar. Compare the total journey time, stopover length and arrival time before deciding which flight suits you best.

Tips for Finding the Best Etihad Airways Flight Deals

💡 The best time to visit Abu Dhabi is November to March, when temperatures are more comfortable. However, this is also peak season, so fares can rise during the Christmas and February half-term holidays.

Book two to three months before departure for Economy Class, and further in advance for Business Class. Compare different departure dates and times, too. Etihad's flight frequency can vary by season, and fares may differ significantly between departures.

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