Travellers have spoken. Etihad listened. The flagship airline of the United Arab Emirates is bringing back its popular A380 – and along with it, one of the most elite commercial flying experiences in the world.

Starting from summer 2023, four Airbus A380s will rejoin the Etihad fleet to provide regular service between London Heathrow and Abu Dhabi. These double-decker giants of the skies present passengers with even more exceptional choices in travel, featuring three distinct classes – the First Apartments, Business Studios and Economy Smart Seats – as well as its one-of-a-kind The Residence, a three-room suite encompassing a bedroom, bathroom and living area.

First Apartment

Arranged in a single-aisle configuration in a serene cabin, each of the nine First Apartments is designed as its own private living space, complete with a leather lounge chair and a large ottoman that, come bedtime, can be opened to form an 80.5-inch-long fully flat bed – Etihad signature turndown service included. You'll want to stay awake, however, at least long enough to enjoy some of the entertainment options loaded onto the 24-inch swivelling touchscreen TV, from popular films to TV series, games and music, and you certainly won't want to miss the delicious multi-course meals; passengers can choose from a mouthwatering selection of à la carte dishes, snacks and grill specialties, all prepared by internationally trained gourmet chefs.

For those who prefer to freshen up before touchdown, the First Apartment cabin is equipped with full-height showers in spacious bathrooms. Thoughtful amenities like toiletries and hair dryers are provided.

Business Cabin/Etihad x Armani Casa

Also located on the upper deck, the Business cabin hosts 70 discrete studio compartments, each with direct aisle access and a fully flat bed, as well as flexible dine-any-time menus and WiFi connectivity. In addition, Business guests are treated to sumptuous textiles and tableware from the Constellation Collection, an exclusive collaboration between Etihad and Italian design firm Armani/Casa.

As much as you may enjoy your comfortable private space on board Etihad’s renowned A380, you may at some point want to stretch your legs and socialise with other passengers. Located between the First and Business cabins, The Lobby offers a serviced lounge and bar area accessible to guests in both classes – a stylish space ideal for holding meetings, catching the latest match or simply savouring a drink and a snack while chatting with fellow flyers. Etihad, it seems, has truly thought of everything.

The Residence