Get Surfshark VPN at surfshark.deals/winginit - Enter promo code WINGINIT for 83% off and THREE MONTHS for free! Hello and welcome to another video - this time we are off to Abu Dhabi in Etihad's much-vaunted Business Studio aboard their Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner. As you'll find out...it was not all plain sailing! Enjoy!
Funny to see we both did this from Stockholm and both had the boarding pass issue on the connection! Good thinking to exit to check-in. Interesting to see your take on the service as well. I think we mostly agree. Your steak sandwich looked tastier than mine, I have to say. Happy travels! -Gabriel from FR24
Great video Paul! At 4:46 the Aspire lounge does look pretty good so that I think should help a bit with your horrible experience at AMS with Etihad, it really is stupid that they don’t have a desk for connections so odd! Also what music do you use at 4:46 if love to know! Finally I cannot wait to try the new Etihad Business Class Studio someday soon! Cheers 🥂 Mate! 😊
I'm always surprised that they charge a fee for Wi-Fi . They spend so much on other amenities, why charge for an element that defines the business in business class .
Just flew Etihad Business AUH-DUB 48 hours ago and thankfully the meal service wasn't single tray anymore with separate plates fir each course... Tried their A350 on JED-AUH too was nifty, although lacking the joy of champagne 😭
I think on flights this short having the meal served on one tray is actually a lot more time efficient. Often times waiting between each course takes up so much time, leaving there less time to sleep or relax. On longer flights individual courses are great for the experience, but for me personally I value efficiency more on anything shorter than like 7 hours.
Agree. Some airlines are throwing "service" at you to make it look like they have good service. Good service entails me getting fed when I want, not constant personal interaction.
Just flew Qatar airways. Dreamliner . Doha-arlanda. Sweden. 6h flight. They didn’t give us all on one plate. It came one at a time. Loved it. Loved the q-suite to Bali even more.
Fantastic review Paul. Got to say I'm not a huge fan of the seat mainly due to the fact it isn't a suite and isn't private what so ever. Keep up the great work!
I've flown on this product and it's not a good or comfortable seat. There is no leg rest, only recline. It's nice to see that Etihad is changing their business class product to the Super Diamond seat (the best seat imo).
I don't get the lack of storage issues. I travel a lot, and not once have I thought I need more storage, on any flight in first or business class. Who even carries that much stuff! Of course unless you are a RUclips travel reviewer. Anyway a fab video as ever!
I agree also. And I also wonder what exactly they plan to be doing in their seat that they're so worried about the supposed lack of privacy. Gosh--three or four other passengers can actually see them! Horrors!
Privacy and storage are the two major areas airlines focus on in terms of advancing business class products. Given the choice, most people prefer to sleep and rest somewhere other people can’t see them, and storage of things like laptops, bedding, spare clothes/PJs, phone, etc - quite important to have those to hand and not in the overhead bins in case you get told to keep seatbelts on. Sure, first world problems, but then again it’s a review of an aspirational business class product which is designed for 6-12 hour flights.
Another great video Paul. The trouble with Etihad is that that grew very quickly and invested in other airlines which resulted in huge losses. They are now making all kinds of cut backs. The 777 is gone, as are the routes to the west coast of the USA. I'm sure that they will get back to what they were at some point.
Seat privacy might depend on where you sit. I don't think the single window seat I had on EY's 787 in 2019 exposed me to four other people. Paul, not sure whether you have noticed but the amenity kit when buttoned together at the corners shapes up as a little bowl of sorts where you can store things like phone etc.
As you probably know, trains into Amsterdam run directly under Schiphol airport, cost only 4,60 euro and run very frequently with a travel time of 17 minutes to Amsterdam Central station. So for any layover longer than a couple of hours, just go to the city and have some Dutch pancakes, a stroopwafel or a raw herring if you feel adventurous! A lot better than some generic airport lounge if you ask me!
2 года назад
Can you just walk out of the airport and when coming back go straight to security? (assuming you already have the second boarding pass)
@ In theory yes, but security queues are very long right now. I would ask staff to be sure because of the worker shortage they might not want you to do that, and when for non-EU citizens im not sure.
2 года назад
@@ageoflove1980 Well i'm planning on having a 9 hour connection, so I would have a lot of time. How long are the security queues?
@ The queue can take 2 hours or so, its pretty nasty. Please double check if you can re-enter but I don't see a reason why it shouldn't be possible, but rules change all the time since the whole pandemic thing. If you can you are golden. Trains depart every 10 minutes for Amsterdam Central, it only takes like 15 minutes and its a regular price, so like only about 5 euros each way. Just check the train departures board in the Schiphol Plaza area, get a ticket from the yellow machines and take the escalator down directly to the station platform. You'll end up right in the city centre so it's worth it for just a couple of hours I'd say. If you exit the station from the front, cross the bridge and take a left and walk in to the old allyways there you immediately end up in Chinatown/Red light district where you can get amazing authentic Chinese food. Way better and cheaper than anything sold at the airport. Its also the oldest part of the city with many little waterways and historic buildings. It would certainly be a layover with style, that's for sure. You could even visit a "coffeeshop" if that's your thing for a true Amsterdam experience but good luck finding the airport after that, hehe.
So funny to hear Dutch in the background at Schiphol. I have been a subscriber for quite some time now, and I simply love how your videos have evolved. You have become very professional but never lost sight of what good trip reports are about
Hey Paul. First and foremost, I love your videos! Thanks for keeping me entertained. I would love you to test and Emirates B777 business class flight. I am not sure why people think EK is good?!? This EY seat you are testing here is miles better! Try EK’s 777 with a 2-3-2 configuration with zero privacy and zero storage (more like a premium economy layout). On top of that, most are in the old fashioned upholstery (not the lush leather ones they always advertise). They don’t even have a true lie-flat seat either! So in comparison, I’d take that EY business seat any day :). Keep up the amazing work!
yeah a lot of airlines are doing that due to covid. I had to exit security at SFO after I landed from LAX to check in for my Asiana Airlines flight to ICN. I couldn't get a mobile boarding and had to check in to get my pass and show my vaccine stuff. I was luckily able to get my bags checked all the way through to ICN though from lax flying united economy on a separate ticket. The Asiana sector was a miles trip in business class.
@@Paul_Lucas for your case that I agree but they should still let you in the lounge with just your reservation ticket and then you can just go straight to the gate to get your boarding pass.
I think being a one flight a day airline, they may not be allowed to have a transfer desk, no matter that they are a major airline. Is it possible they can partner with another airline to maybe share their transfer desk.
Hi Paul! I have a question: was the pcr testing you did upon arrival like the random testing they still give arriving in Canada? I mean after being tested for, did you just go to your hotel without waiting for the result? And if so, would it not be too problematic? I was planning to go to Canada this summer but am having thoughts bec of this random testing thing.
It sounds like it would be better to check in from Stockholm to Amsterdam, collect your bag then go to Etihad check-in for the Amsterdam AbDab leg. I appreciate it is one ticket but can you insist they tag your bag only to AMS?
I was an occasional EY traveler for years (1-3 trips a year to US, Asia, & Europe), but their airfares have become unreasonable to the point I’m not bothering with them any longer. I’d rather make the 90 minute drive up to DXB to fly another airline (not EK, same prices), and I live right next to AUH.
Phew! I'm so happy you got all that straightened out and made it to the lounge. Wait a minute, I thought this was a flight review. Oh, there I go thinking too much.
Etihad Airways is generally a great airline,so I hope the next time you fly with them,you have a great experience.Thanks for your honest review.Keep it up.
From the seat that was offered, the Delta One Suite seems to be a better seat as compared to this Etihad Business class seat. Also, Paul if starting from Stockholm was cheaper than starting straight in AMS, how much did it cost to get to Stockholm to "start" this trip? Is the juice worth the squeeze? Thanks and great review as always.
Few years I wanted to go to Bali, business class from London. Main airlines via their hub £2100-2500. Garuda Indonesia to Bangkok via Jakarta £1100, and I added a business class Malaysian return to Bali for £249. Such joy, an extra few days in BKK and so much relaxation on the travel days ! And saved so much £££!
Great vlog as always! You get your bag tag copy as a sticker and they give to you dont they? I also remember life pre internet and mobile phones. I am passed 50 now by a few yrs. If this would have been C class and not F then it would have been an awesome trip. Have you flown AF F class? They (Jeb and Sam Chui) said it was an experience that was better that EK and EY! Looking forward to the next one. Happy landings!
@paul Next month I’ll be flying business on SQ from SFO-SIN on their A350-900. I was able to get a bulkhead seat as I was told was best for taller travelers who prefer better footwell. Overall, how would you rate these seats compared to the industry as a whole (long haul business)? I’ve never flown SQ business A350. Thanks for the great content
I just got back from Etihad business last week and started my trip in Paris. Return from Paris via Abu Dhabi to Bangkok cost £1150. Can’t complain about that! Same fare from London was £2850. Overall good expectance but some food was not available on the flights and the coffee machine broken on the return leg. I was in the two inner seats and if you don’t mind not having a window they are very private when flying with a friend or partner. Some of the aisle seats have a sliding half panel that gives marginally more privacy. But yes the design could be better.
No, the lounge is unable to check tickets; it's a third party lounge. They require a boarding pass scan as proof of my entry, so they can charge the airline. It would be different if it was an Etihad-run lounge.
I always felt like Ethiad is the old BA business class product done correctly and sanely. The layout just sort of reminds me of Club World prior to their recent refresh (back when it was 2-4-2 and, to quote Dennis Bunnik, the best seats for long haul travelers was on another airline). Oddly going back to Dennis, last reviews he did on Ethiad there was not great but alot better than what you experienced which is confusing. Given I'm likely headed to the UAE sometime in the near future I might end up going with Emirates instead even if Ethiad flies where I need it to in Abu Dhabi
I'd be upset too if my flight was delayed because I don't like to wait too long I want to travel and have fun but I'll try to do whatever it takes to pass the time
Etihad are appalling for customer service. They keep changing my flight departures. However when I say I want a different date, they billed me £700 in ADMIN FEES! They haven't answered my 2 paper letters nor emails
Hi Paul thanks for the review its disappointing that you had all that trouble at AMS, first time flyers could miss their flight because of the complications.
No Paul, it won’t be at the airline’s expense to deport you. Unfortunately it will be all your followers expense in economy class, who would expect a video report.
A very nice and honest trip report! I like Etihad, I flew with them and will fly with them again for sure. Speaking about your experience: _I agree, they should fix the transit issue at AMS! Unacceptable! _About the delay, we all know it happens with all airlines unfortunately. _The business studio? I personally think it’s an amazing business class seat! Considering it’s a 7 year old product and still can compete in the market! Let’s see their new product on the A350… _About their arrival service, amazing! Ciao from Milano!
I believe I used that aspire lounge on a layover from Uganda - I certainly got my €30 worth of money back compared to potentially spending that at concessions
Can't say it would particularly concern me about seeing other passengers and them seeing me in Business Class. Seat pods always look a bit claustrophobic, especially when there's a sliding partition to close one in even more. Not my cup of tea - I'd rather fly in the older and more open business class cabins which just feel more spacious. Each to their own I guess.
Paul, is there any news on the Abu Dhabi long awaited mid field terminal please? I'm disappointed that Etihad seems to have lowered their standards a bit, but I'm still looking forward to my flight with them later in the year. Thanks for the review of the flight, non so much the transit issues 🤪
I live a stones throw from AUH, and can see some of the new terminal from my balcony. There’s almost nothing going on from what I can see when I drive by it a few times every week.
Flown J with Etihad several times but never again. Great wines. Seats are wearing and sagging. Reverse seats no way! Narrow seats/beds. Ran out of chicken mains, when they claim À la cart, and it was the only mains without obvious dairy. Serve ok but not fabulous.
Get Surfshark VPN at surfshark.deals/winginit - Enter promo code WINGINIT for 83% off and THREE MONTHS for free!
Hello and welcome to another video - this time we are off to Abu Dhabi in Etihad's much-vaunted Business Studio aboard their Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner. As you'll find out...it was not all plain sailing! Enjoy!
Just signed up for it. Surfshark rocks! 😊
Funny to see we both did this from Stockholm and both had the boarding pass issue on the connection! Good thinking to exit to check-in. Interesting to see your take on the service as well. I think we mostly agree. Your steak sandwich looked tastier than mine, I have to say. Happy travels! -Gabriel from FR24
Thanks! Yes Stockholm really is the place to be for cheap air fares. Strange that as it’s a very expensive place otherwise 😆
@@Paul_Lucas Yes, we connected from JFK through Stockholm to get to Burgas, Bulgaria (with Norwegian Air Shuttle).
Great video Paul! At 4:46 the Aspire lounge does look pretty good so that I think should help a bit with your horrible experience at AMS with Etihad, it really is stupid that they don’t have a desk for connections so odd! Also what music do you use at 4:46 if love to know!
Finally I cannot wait to try the new Etihad Business Class Studio someday soon!
Cheers 🥂 Mate! 😊
I'm always surprised that they charge a fee for Wi-Fi . They spend so much on other amenities, why charge for an element that defines the business in business class .
I had an 8hr layover at Schiphol, spent few hours in the city and 4hrs at Crown Lounge. It was great
The quality of your videos has gotten much better. Nice work!
Just flew Etihad Business AUH-DUB 48 hours ago and thankfully the meal service wasn't single tray anymore with separate plates fir each course... Tried their A350 on JED-AUH too was nifty, although lacking the joy of champagne 😭
I think on flights this short having the meal served on one tray is actually a lot more time efficient. Often times waiting between each course takes up so much time, leaving there less time to sleep or relax. On longer flights individual courses are great for the experience, but for me personally I value efficiency more on anything shorter than like 7 hours.
Totally agree with you. Meal served in one tray. Save a lot of time. Efficiency here. Time management. Since Etihad had a lot of Business class seats.
Agree.
Some airlines are throwing "service" at you to make it look like they have good service. Good service entails me getting fed when I want, not constant personal interaction.
Just flew Qatar airways. Dreamliner . Doha-arlanda. Sweden. 6h flight. They didn’t give us all on one plate. It came one at a time. Loved it. Loved the q-suite to Bali even more.
I love AMS layovers ; can take a train to Central Station & explore AMS even on short 3-4 hour layovers
Don’t worry my friend when I flew BA business class about two weeks ago from the US they served it all on one tray.
Fantastic review Paul. Got to say I'm not a huge fan of the seat mainly due to the fact it isn't a suite and isn't private what so ever. Keep up the great work!
Great editing, interesting throughout and generally a thoroughly enjoyable watch. Lovely work as always Paul.
I've flown on this product and it's not a good or comfortable seat. There is no leg rest, only recline. It's nice to see that Etihad is changing their business class product to the Super Diamond seat (the best seat imo).
I don't get the lack of storage issues. I travel a lot, and not once have I thought I need more storage, on any flight in first or business class. Who even carries that much stuff! Of course unless you are a RUclips travel reviewer. Anyway a fab video as ever!
I agree hey. They go on about it a lot
I agree also. And I also wonder what exactly they plan to be doing in their seat that they're so worried about the supposed lack of privacy. Gosh--three or four other passengers can actually see them! Horrors!
Privacy and storage are the two major areas airlines focus on in terms of advancing business class products. Given the choice, most people prefer to sleep and rest somewhere other people can’t see them, and storage of things like laptops, bedding, spare clothes/PJs, phone, etc - quite important to have those to hand and not in the overhead bins in case you get told to keep seatbelts on. Sure, first world problems, but then again it’s a review of an aspirational business class product which is designed for 6-12 hour flights.
@@Paul_Lucas fair enough. They’re your videos at the end of the day you can say what you want
Another great video Paul. The trouble with Etihad is that that grew very quickly and invested in other airlines which resulted in huge losses. They are now making all kinds of cut backs. The 777 is gone, as are the routes to the west coast of the USA. I'm sure that they will get back to what they were at some point.
Etihad is still operating the 777! They have -300ERs, although they did retire the -200 models recently.
Any idea why the boarding pass to AUH was not issued at Stockholm?
The airline would need to see my covid and vaccine status and KLM would be unable to do this on their behalf, it seems.
Yay yay so excited for this video
Paul seems to be the optimal travel companion.
Seat privacy might depend on where you sit. I don't think the single window seat I had on EY's 787 in 2019 exposed me to four other people. Paul, not sure whether you have noticed but the amenity kit when buttoned together at the corners shapes up as a little bowl of sorts where you can store things like phone etc.
As you probably know, trains into Amsterdam run directly under Schiphol airport, cost only 4,60 euro and run very frequently with a travel time of 17 minutes to Amsterdam Central station. So for any layover longer than a couple of hours, just go to the city and have some Dutch pancakes, a stroopwafel or a raw herring if you feel adventurous! A lot better than some generic airport lounge if you ask me!
Can you just walk out of the airport and when coming back go straight to security? (assuming you already have the second boarding pass)
@ In theory yes, but security queues are very long right now. I would ask staff to be sure because of the worker shortage they might not want you to do that, and when for non-EU citizens im not sure.
@@ageoflove1980 Well i'm planning on having a 9 hour connection, so I would have a lot of time.
How long are the security queues?
@ The queue can take 2 hours or so, its pretty nasty. Please double check if you can re-enter but I don't see a reason why it shouldn't be possible, but rules change all the time since the whole pandemic thing. If you can you are golden. Trains depart every 10 minutes for Amsterdam Central, it only takes like 15 minutes and its a regular price, so like only about 5 euros each way. Just check the train departures board in the Schiphol Plaza area, get a ticket from the yellow machines and take the escalator down directly to the station platform.
You'll end up right in the city centre so it's worth it for just a couple of hours I'd say. If you exit the station from the front, cross the bridge and take a left and walk in to the old allyways there you immediately end up in Chinatown/Red light district where you can get amazing authentic Chinese food. Way better and cheaper than anything sold at the airport. Its also the oldest part of the city with many little waterways and historic buildings. It would certainly be a layover with style, that's for sure. You could even visit a "coffeeshop" if that's your thing for a true Amsterdam experience but good luck finding the airport after that, hehe.
Another fantastic review Paul. My go-to review RUclips reviewer, better than most others out there in my opinion.
Tbh an outstation like AMS in case of etihad makes it a difficult decision to have a transfer desk as they only have one daily flight I believe.
paul lucas and noel philips are a class above the rest of travel vloggers
Definitely agree
So in aviation travel speak are you saying they are First Class and the rest of the vloggers economy,?
@@Smartychase well i don't want to offend anyone so i'll say they are in business while the rest premium economy
And Jeb Brooks
Paul is a class above Noel.
Please do the Amtrak Texas Eagle in a room ( not roomet) I'm dying to see it from your perspective
So funny to hear Dutch in the background at Schiphol. I have been a subscriber for quite some time now, and I simply love how your videos have evolved. You have become very professional but never lost sight of what good trip reports are about
Nice reference to the channel’s old name!
You can actually push the table back to the TV so you can exit the seat with the table deployed! 9:29
9:48 Are the windows tinted?
Yes, this is the 787, which has dimmable windows.
Good video. I've flown Etihad business only once. As I recall, it was quite nice.
It looked very comfortable once you got on board (steerage passenger me!). Thank you for the video!
Hey Paul. First and foremost, I love your videos! Thanks for keeping me entertained. I would love you to test and Emirates B777 business class flight. I am not sure why people think EK is good?!? This EY seat you are testing here is miles better! Try EK’s 777 with a 2-3-2 configuration with zero privacy and zero storage (more like a premium economy layout). On top of that, most are in the old fashioned upholstery (not the lush leather ones they always advertise). They don’t even have a true lie-flat seat either! So in comparison, I’d take that EY business seat any day :). Keep up the amazing work!
Emirates A380 is one of the best business class but their 777 is outdated
Great video! Can’t wait to fly them in November in First and Business.
yeah a lot of airlines are doing that due to covid. I had to exit security at SFO after I landed from LAX to check in for my Asiana Airlines flight to ICN. I couldn't get a mobile boarding and had to check in to get my pass and show my vaccine stuff. I was luckily able to get my bags checked all the way through to ICN though from lax flying united economy on a separate ticket. The Asiana sector was a miles trip in business class.
But that’s on separate tickets. On one ticket you should be able to use a transfer desk and not be forced to enter a country.
@@Paul_Lucas for your case that I agree but they should still let you in the lounge with just your reservation ticket and then you can just go straight to the gate to get your boarding pass.
I think being a one flight a day airline, they may not be allowed to have a transfer desk, no matter that they are a major airline. Is it possible they can partner with another airline to maybe share their transfer desk.
Did you win lotto to fund your travel?
Nice video.. love it.. may i ask which wine you choose? As you said its sweet and i love sweet wine❤️.. thank you
Awesome video
Hi Paul! I have a question: was the pcr testing you did upon arrival like the random testing they still give arriving in Canada? I mean after being tested for, did you just go to your hotel without waiting for the result? And if so, would it not be too problematic? I was planning to go to Canada this summer but am having thoughts bec of this random testing thing.
This test was for everyone, you were free to go immediately after it and before receiving results.
Really good video and honest as well. Paul
It sounds like it would be better to check in from Stockholm to Amsterdam, collect your bag then go to Etihad check-in for the Amsterdam AbDab leg. I appreciate it is one ticket but can you insist they tag your bag only to AMS?
When did that flight took place?
I had the same thing with Emirates flying through Manchester
I haven't been out of the uk in years, but for some reason I love your videos. I'm curious what you could do reviewing the hotels you stay in.
Great video Paul. 👏
Great video Paul. Maybe try EL Al one of these days. You can even get to the UAE from Israel now .
I was an occasional EY traveler for years (1-3 trips a year to US, Asia, & Europe), but their airfares have become unreasonable to the point I’m not bothering with them any longer. I’d rather make the 90 minute drive up to DXB to fly another airline (not EK, same prices), and I live right next to AUH.
did etihad weigh you hand luggage?
Great review as ever, Paul. If I was ever able to fly business, this wouldn’t be my first choice; struck me as a bit 🤷♂️
Phew! I'm so happy you got all that straightened out and made it to the lounge. Wait a minute, I thought this was a flight review. Oh, there I go thinking too much.
Do you find that airlines are now looking out for your name when buying tickets ? Because you are honest and say it how it is
Etihad Airways is generally a great airline,so I hope the next time you fly with them,you have a great experience.Thanks for your honest review.Keep it up.
Thanks mate for another great review i will definitely check it out
Nice video! Can you pls do one of the canadian (VIA Rail)
Hi Paul, I'm curious what your opinion is about Schiphol Airport in general?
It is still available the Etihad A380? I really miss the Apartments of Etihad. It was a great experience!!!
Sadly they’re all grounded now!
Thanks Paul🌞
From the seat that was offered, the Delta One Suite seems to be a better seat as compared to this Etihad Business class seat. Also, Paul if starting from Stockholm was cheaper than starting straight in AMS, how much did it cost to get to Stockholm to "start" this trip? Is the juice worth the squeeze? Thanks and great review as always.
There's a bunch of better business seats.. etihad isnt even in the top 10
Stockholm from London is usually about £100 one way, although much easier just to redeem Avios for a short haul BA flight.
@@Paul_Lucas Ahh, excellent. Thanks for replying Paul!
Great review as always ! And a great rate, pays off having a different starting or ending point.
Stockholm is ripe for good business fares to the UAE and Asia 👍🏻
Few years I wanted to go to Bali, business class from London.
Main airlines via their hub £2100-2500.
Garuda Indonesia to Bangkok via Jakarta £1100, and I added a business class Malaysian return to Bali for £249.
Such joy, an extra few days in BKK and so much relaxation on the travel days ! And saved so much £££!
Great vlog as always! You get your bag tag copy as a sticker and they give to you dont they? I also remember life pre internet and mobile phones. I am passed 50 now by a few yrs. If this would have been C class and not F then it would have been an awesome trip. Have you flown AF F class? They (Jeb and Sam Chui) said it was an experience that was better that EK and EY! Looking forward to the next one. Happy landings!
Would you recommend etihad over Emirates?
Nice Report thanks
@paul Next month I’ll be flying business on SQ from SFO-SIN on their A350-900. I was able to get a bulkhead seat as I was told was best for taller travelers who prefer better footwell. Overall, how would you rate these seats compared to the industry as a whole (long haul business)? I’ve never flown SQ business A350. Thanks for the great content
Great video dude... ever thought of a bit of a sideline and doing a video on the hotels you stay in?
Afraid I don’t have the time - or the interest in hotels!
Great Video.
Great flight
"normally in business class each course would be served separately"
me: cries in American.
No doubt, you’ve got the best job in the world and I envy you. Keep traveling and keep bringing nice videos. Cheers 👍
Informative and enjoyable 👋👏
Thanks Paul.
Always love your videos but from the beginning it gave me anxiety and aggravation with all of the pre amble - sorry maybe look at the next one ☝️
Oh how me heart bleeds for your connection and lounge experience, as I bounce around on the train home from work! 😋
:-D
I just got back from Etihad business last week and started my trip in Paris. Return from Paris via Abu Dhabi to Bangkok cost £1150. Can’t complain about that! Same fare from London was £2850. Overall good expectance but some food was not available on the flights and the coffee machine broken on the return leg. I was in the two inner seats and if you don’t mind not having a window they are very private when flying with a friend or partner. Some of the aisle seats have a sliding half panel that gives marginally more privacy. But yes the design could be better.
Obviously, your hard work pays off judging by the No. of your followers, which includes me! 👍
I'm sure if you went straight to the lounge with your passport, they would check your ticket and let you in anyway
No, the lounge is unable to check tickets; it's a third party lounge. They require a boarding pass scan as proof of my entry, so they can charge the airline. It would be different if it was an Etihad-run lounge.
3:59 a statement by crew which you can’t do anything about it
Paul watches The Simpsons, future friendship confirmed!
you get easily into lounge just showing the lounge your reservation. what is the big issue?
No you can’t. You can’t enter a third party lounge without an onward boarding pass.
I always felt like Ethiad is the old BA business class product done correctly and sanely. The layout just sort of reminds me of Club World prior to their recent refresh (back when it was 2-4-2 and, to quote Dennis Bunnik, the best seats for long haul travelers was on another airline). Oddly going back to Dennis, last reviews he did on Ethiad there was not great but alot better than what you experienced which is confusing.
Given I'm likely headed to the UAE sometime in the near future I might end up going with Emirates instead even if Ethiad flies where I need it to in Abu Dhabi
You can't compare Etihad with BA, at least not this seat. Its longer, wider, better quality entertainment screen, better food, anything else....
I remember that line from Dennis and it really made me laugh!
I'd be upset too if my flight was delayed because I don't like to wait too long I want to travel and have fun but I'll try to do whatever it takes to pass the time
Hy bro. Come visit indian railways 'Maharaja' . One of the best train in the world
I thought that bathroom window was a urinal for a moment.
Much as I like your videos Paul, i'd rather have a larger section devoted to the lovely Danni ..
Thanks Paul, Interesting, I thought they were much better than that. I might stick with Singapore. BC
Etihad are appalling for customer service. They keep changing my flight departures. However when I say I want a different date, they billed me £700 in ADMIN FEES! They haven't answered my 2 paper letters nor emails
I look forward to watching your videos 😄 especially when Paul boards the plane ✈️ and the little sentences at the door. Listen for the bing 🛎
Waiting for your Indian visit ♥️
Hi Paul thanks for the review its disappointing that you had all that trouble at AMS, first time flyers could miss their flight because of the complications.
Amsterdam the main airport for Armin Van Buuren and Dennis Buunik
Nice video
5:14 That transition was clean
No Paul, it won’t be at the airline’s expense to deport you. Unfortunately it will be all your followers expense in economy class, who would expect a video report.
Can I please get a code for Botox as you have a new fore head & I want one .
Emotional less so jealous
Should have used the app
Paul fantastic vlog as always
It is odd they don’t have things better organized
A very nice and honest trip report!
I like Etihad, I flew with them and will fly with them again for sure. Speaking about your experience: _I agree, they should fix the transit issue at AMS! Unacceptable!
_About the delay, we all know it happens with all airlines unfortunately.
_The business studio? I personally think it’s an amazing business class seat! Considering it’s a 7 year old product and still can compete in the market! Let’s see their new product on the A350…
_About their arrival service, amazing!
Ciao from Milano!
I believe I used that aspire lounge on a layover from Uganda - I certainly got my €30 worth of money back compared to potentially spending that at concessions
Another enjoyable trip report, Paul! Would love for you to do one to somewhere safe in equatorial Africa. C'mon! Go somewhere new and unusual!
Last time I flew business with them, it definitely didn't feel special..
Can't say it would particularly concern me about seeing other passengers and them seeing me in Business Class. Seat pods always look a bit claustrophobic, especially when there's a sliding partition to close one in even more. Not my cup of tea - I'd rather fly in the older and more open business class cabins which just feel more spacious. Each to their own I guess.
Paul, is there any news on the Abu Dhabi long awaited mid field terminal please?
I'm disappointed that Etihad seems to have lowered their standards a bit, but I'm still looking forward to my flight with them later in the year.
Thanks for the review of the flight, non so much the transit issues 🤪
I live a stones throw from AUH, and can see some of the new terminal from my balcony. There’s almost nothing going on from what I can see when I drive by it a few times every week.
Flown J with Etihad several times but never again. Great wines. Seats are wearing and sagging. Reverse seats no way! Narrow seats/beds. Ran out of chicken mains, when they claim À la cart, and it was the only mains without obvious dairy. Serve ok but not fabulous.
Yes