Etihad Airways Business Class delivers a premium experience from London to Cambodia via Abu Dhabi, with standout features including spacious seats, restaurant-quality meals, and Armani/Casa tableware. However, the absence of complimentary WiFi and inconsistent cabin temperature are notable drawbacks.
Lounge and Boarding Experience
The journey begins at Heathrow with access to Etihad's Business Class lounge, where passengers can enjoy Arabic mezze and Champagne before departure. Fast-track security is included, streamlining the airport process. The first leg to Abu Dhabi is aboard an Airbus A380, with the entire upper deck reserved for premium passengers, including Business Class, First Class, and The Residence. A dedicated boarding tunnel enhances the sense of exclusivity.
Cabin and Seat Comfort
The cabin design features warm brown, camel, and cream tones, creating a cozy atmosphere. The Business Class seat is 20 inches wide and converts into a fully flat bed with intuitive controls—a single tap adjusts between upright, reclined, and bed modes. Ample storage compartments are provided. The seat's comfort allows for restful sleep, with the reviewer noting they fell asleep quickly and woke feeling refreshed after a seven-hour flight.
Dining and Amenities
Upon boarding, passengers are offered Telmont Champagne served in Armani/Casa flutes. The amenity kit comes in a leather-look pouch containing Espa products, including a hydrating facial mist that proved popular during the flight. Dining begins with Arabic mezze, followed by grilled cod with herb potatoes and brown shrimp butter, paired with a full-bodied Bordeaux. Meals are presented with a faux candle, adding a touch of romance. On subsequent flights, a standout dish was seafood Hokkien noodles with prawns and calamari. The cocktails, particularly the Old Fashioned, were praised as superior to those at a London bar.
Service and Extras
Cabin crew are warm and attentive, with one crew member handing the reviewer a personally written postcard before landing. The onboard WiFi, however, is not complimentary; a long-haul Surf package costs $24.99, which the reviewer found steep given the premium ticket price. The entertainment system offers a large library, though slightly smaller than some competitors.
Drawbacks
The main cons are the paid WiFi and lack of personal air vents in Business Class, leading to fluctuating cabin temperatures. Bathroom lighting is dim, styled like a cocktail bar rather than a functional lavatory. These issues, while not deal-breakers, prevent the experience from being perfect.
Cost and Verdict
Return Business Class tickets from London Heathrow to Phnom Penh start from £3,153 per person in July. The reviewer concludes that Etihad's Business Class makes a long journey feel surprisingly short, with comfortable seats, excellent food, and effortless service. Despite minor flaws, the overall experience is highly recommended.
