When Etihad Airways announced the permanent retirement of its ten A380-800 aircraft in early 2020, I assumed that The Apartment, the world-famous Etihad First Class suite, was gone for good. 

To my surprise, Etihad brought the A380-800 back to life at the end of 2022, initially reintroducing three aircraft to operate between Abu Dhabi (AUH) and London (LHR). For travelers like me, this route became one of the most indulgent experiences in commercial aviation.

What makes the Etihad Airways A380-800 First Class so iconic is The Apartment itself. Each suite is arranged in a 1-1 layout, creating one of the largest private spaces available on any airline. From the wide armchair and separate bed to the closing doors and vanity area, this First Class space truly feels like a personal sanctuary at 40,000 feet.

To make this experience even more special, my journey begins as Etihad officially opens its new home at the renamed Sheikh Zayed International Airport (AUH), formerly known as Terminal A. 

This marks my first chance to explore the brand-new terminal and the redesigned Etihad Airways First and Business Class Lounge before boarding my aviation bucket-list A380-800 flight.

Award Flight Booking (6/10)

On this flight, I book Etihad Airways A380-800 First Class The Apartment, as The Residence is already occupied. Even without the top-tier suite, this journey still feels like an experience of a lifetime.

Etihad Airways operates independently and is not part of any airline alliance, which means booking First Class seats requires a little creativity. Instead, Etihad Airways partners with select airlines and maintains several codeshare agreements that allow travelers to redeem miles through different loyalty programs.

After a bit of research, here are the best one-way booking options I find for Etihad Airways A380-800 First Class The Apartment on the Abu Dhabi (AUH) to London (LHR) route:

• American Airlines AAdvantage: 62,500 miles + 35 USD
• Etihad Guest: 140,000 + 250 USD
• Air Canada Aeroplan: 82,000 + 60 USD

For this journey, I secure two Etihad Airways A380-800 First Class seats through Air Canada Aeroplan, and the redemption feels like a remarkable deal for such a luxurious long-haul flight.

Note: Air Canada Aeroplan no longer offers award bookings for Etihad Airways premium cabins. This option disappeared a few years ago, and there is no current timeline for its return.

Here is the exact itinerary I book:

• Flight Number: EY17
• Route: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (AUH) to London, United Kingdom (LHR)
• Departure Date: February 9th, 2024
• Departing: 14:15
• Arriving: 17:55
• Duration: 7 hours 40 minutes

TPA Pro Tip: In 2025 / 2026, the most reliable way to book Etihad Airways First Class is through the American Airlines AAdvantage program. Award seats typically appear within 30 days of departure, so staying flexible greatly increases your chances of securing this rare and luxurious experience.

First Class Airport Check-In (9/10)

When I arrive at Zayed International Airport (AUH), I return my rental car and head toward the departures level. The Etihad Airways check-in desks sit on the far right side of the terminal, with a clearly marked area for Business Class passengers.

At first, it is not obvious where the Etihad Airways First Class check-in area is located. However, once I enter the Business Class zone and walk to the very back, I find it – tucked away behind the main counters in a secluded, elegant space reserved for Etihad Airways First Class travelers.

This area feels completely separate from the rest of the airport. It is quiet, calm, and refined, with four dedicated check-in desks and a comfortable seating area featuring oversized armchairs and soft sofas. The layout feels more like a private lounge than a standard check-in hall.

As soon as I arrive, the check-in agent takes my passport and invites me to sit while they handle everything. While waiting, a waiter approaches and offers me a drink, which is a wonderful touch that immediately sets the tone for the Etihad Airways A380-800 First Class journey ahead.

Security And Immigration

Within minutes, the formalities are complete. I proceed directly to the dedicated First Class immigration and security lanes, where the process is almost effortless. The e-gates work instantly, and there is no line at all at the First Class security checkpoint.

From arrival at the terminal to clearing security, the entire process takes no more than five minutes. It feels almost surreal – quiet, efficient, and private, as if I have the entire terminal to myself.

Airport Lounge: Etihad Airways First Class Lounge (9/10)

After clearing security, I make my way through the duty-free shops, where staff hand out complimentary goodie bags to celebrate the official airport renaming from Terminal A. It feels like the perfect day to experience the Etihad Airways new flagship home and the legendary Etihad First Class Lounge before boarding my flight.

The Etihad First Class and Business Class Lounge sits near Gate C29. The First Class entrance is right beside Gate C29, while the Business Class entrance is a short walk down the hall toward Gate C27. 

After a quick boarding pass check, I take the elevator up to Level 6, where the First Class lounge occupies a private section inside the expansive four-level Business Class lounge complex.

As soon as I step out of the elevator, a lounge attendant greets me warmly and offers to store my carry-on luggage – a thoughtful service that allows me to relax and explore freely. 

Inside, the first thing I notice is the calm atmosphere. The lounge is nearly silent, with only a handful of guests and plenty of attentive staff, including servers, chefs, and shower attendants. It is peaceful, but almost too peaceful. I find myself whispering and moving my utensils carefully, not wanting to disturb the quiet around me.

Still, the space is elegant, modern, and beautifully designed. The large windows, rich tones, and soft lighting make it feel more like a luxury hotel than an airport lounge.

First Class Lounge Dining

The highlight of the experience is the full à la carte dining service, which covers both breakfast and lunch / dinner menus. When I first arrive, I am handed the breakfast menu and decide to keep it simple – poached egg shakshuka paired with a lemon mint juice to start the morning. 

The dish is flavorful and fresh, though I quickly learn that the lunch and dinner service is where this lounge truly shines.

As the menu changes, I order several items to sample: Arabic mezze, beef tenderloin, chicken supreme, and Robian Tata (prawns with rice). For dessert, I try both the kunaffah and the chocolate budino.

Every single dish is outstanding. 

The presentation is refined, the flavors are bold, and the ingredients taste fresh and perfectly balanced. It is easily the best airport dining experience I have ever had, rivaling what I would expect from a fine dining restaurant rather than an airline lounge.

Etihad Airways A380-800 First Class Cabin And Layout (10/10)

Boarding begins directly from the end of the Etihad Airways First Class Lounge, where a private jet bridge connects straight to the A380-800 upper deck. 

Stepping onboard for the first time, I finally see this superjumbo up close, and I am instantly struck by its sheer size and presence. Dressed in the gold and white Etihad livery, the aircraft looks absolutely majestic.

As I enter through the first set of doors on the upper deck, the pursuer and a few flight attendants greet me warmly and escort me to my seat in 3A, while my wife settles into 4A.

The Etihad Airways A380-800 First Class cabin is arranged in a 1-1 layout, with a single spacious suite on each side of the aisle. Each suite feels private and expansive, with high walls, a wide armchair, a separate bed, and a personal vanity.

At the very front of the cabin, in seat 1A, sits The Residence – the ultra-luxury Etihad Airways suite that includes a private living room, ensuite bathroom, and bedroom.

One of the first things I notice is the lack of overhead bins, which gives the cabin a much more open and airy feeling. The space feels elegant, understated, and designed entirely around privacy and comfort.

Etihad Airways First Class Seating Strategy

When it comes to selecting seats for The Apartments, strategy matters. For solo travelers, the best options are 4A or 4K, which are forward-facing and positioned directly beside the windows. These seats provide the most natural light and the best inflight views.

If traveling as a couple, the ideal seat pairings are 3A and 4A, or 3K and 4K. These combinations allow you to lower the partition between the two suites and create a semi-double bed in the sky. It is one of the most unique seating features in commercial aviation and makes the experience feel even more exclusive.

That said, all the Etihad Airways A380-800 First Class suites are exceptional, but not all suites are identical. Seats farther from the windows offer slightly less visibility outside, which can make the space feel more enclosed. 

Personally, I always prefer being right by the window – especially on a daytime flight.

Etihad Airways First Class Guest Areas

At the very front of the cabin, a staircase connects the upper and lower decks, while The Residence sits to one side and two lavatories occupy the other. 

One lavatory includes the Etihad Airways First Class shower, while the other is more spacious and comfortable to use if both are available. With only nine passengers in the First Class cabin, waiting is rare unless several passengers are showering consecutively.

Behind Row 5, there is a large galley followed by a small onboard bar, which is shared between Business Class and First Class guests. The bar looks impressive but functions more as a design feature than a social hub.

It carries a modest selection of spirits, but the space is tight and lacks windows, which makes it feel darker and less inviting. 

Etihad Airways First Class Seat: The Apartment (10/10)

As with most premium cabins, the highlight of Etihad Airways A380-800 First Class suite is the seat itself. When I step onto the plane, a flight attendant guides me to Seat 3A, a rear-facing window seat, and I immediately notice how enormous the space feels.

Each Apartment measures 39 square feet, which is larger than some hotel rooms I have stayed in. It is no exaggeration to say that you could comfortably pace back and forth or even do a few jumping jacks in your private suite.

The Apartment – Seat

Inside The Apartment, a wide armchair, long ottoman, closet, and personal vanity fill the space. The seat measures 30.3 inches wide, about four inches narrower than “The Suite” First Class on All Nippon Airways (ANA), but it still feels incredibly comfortable and supportive.

On the seat and ottoman, Etihad places a fluffy duvet and a bright, patterned cushion, a small but elegant touch. In front of me sits a 24-inch 1080p in-flight entertainment (IFE) screen. While the resolution shows its age compared to newer First Class cabins, it still looks sharp and functional.

Beneath the entertainment screen, the ottoman transforms into an 80.5-inch (2-meter) fully flat bed, one of the longest in the sky.

Because the Etihad Airways A380-800 First Class cabin does not have overhead bins, each suite includes multiple storage spaces to compensate. 

Two long compartments beneath the ottoman easily fit a backpack and small suitcase. Three large windows line the suite, each with electronic blinds that can be adjusted using controls below the armrest.

The seat controls allow me to switch between dining, lounging, and takeoff / landing positions.

While I wish the recline were slightly deeper, the overall comfort, space, and privacy easily make up for it.

Storage, Features, And Functionality

Etihad clearly designed The Apartment with both form and function in mind.

On the right-hand side, a fold-out dining table hides within the armrest. It is heavy and well-built, providing ample space for one passenger during meal service, though it can feel a little crowded during buddy dining.

Above the table controls, I find two USB-A outlets, an HDMI port, and a three-prong headphone jack, along with the IFE remote. 

Hidden beneath the armrest is a small storage compartment perfect for phones, chargers, and small items. A touch panel here controls lighting, window blinds, and call buttons.

The opposite side of the suite houses one of my favorite design features – a chilled mini-bar built into the wall. It is simple but practical, keeping drinks cold throughout the flight.

Above it sits a small pull-out drawer, ideal for storing documents or smaller accessories. Just beside it, a universal AC outlet ensures everything stays powered.

Pressing gently on the sleek white panels reveals an illuminated vanity mirror with three panels and a small drawer that holds the amenity kit. Another hidden compartment beside the mirror stores the provided Etihad headphones and a few more personal items. 

Behind the sliding doors, a full-length closet with a hanger provides space for jackets or larger clothing items.

A sliding divider separates each suite, which can retract to connect adjoining suites – a feature that couples often enjoy for creating a shared semi-double bed setup.

I find an additional storage pocket behind me, perfect for keeping smaller items close at hand, and a mounted reading lamp provides soft ambient light.

Etihad Airways First Class Bed: The Apartment (9/10)

After dinner, the Etihad Airways flight attendants come by to offer turndown service, asking if I would like them to convert the ottoman into a bed. I politely decline, since I plan to stay awake for the flight and sleep later at my hotel in London. 

Still, it is impressive how proactively the crew offers to make the bed for every passenger.

For reference, Etihad Airways provides a full mattress pad, large duvet, and full-size pillow as part of the turndown service. You are not expected to sleep using the smaller throw pillow provided at boarding.

Even though I skip the full setup, I decide to convert the ottoman into a bed myself using the existing blanket and throw pillow. The transition is simple, and in bed mode, I can still control the suite lighting, ambient mood settings, and the position of the IFE screen from the buttons mounted along the central divider.

The bed measures about 80.5 inches (2 meters) long, giving me plenty of room to stretch out. The absence of a side wall makes it feel less cocoon-like, which might be noticeable for side sleepers.

First Class Shared Bed Experience

Where the Etihad Airways A380-800 First Class suites truly shines is for couples. If you are traveling with a companion, you can lower the divider between two adjoining Apartments (such as 3A and 4A or 3K and 4K) to create a shared semi-double bed in the sky.

While you can only lie side by side from the upper body up, it still feels incredibly special. Having this level of connection in flight is a rare privilege that only a handful of airlines – like Etihad Airways or Singapore Airlines – can offer.

On-Board Entertainment (7/10)

When it comes to entertainment on the Etihad Airways A380-800 First Class, it is one of the few areas that feels dated. The in-flight entertainment (IFE) monitor is smaller than expected given how far it sits from the seat, and the interface is noticeably laggy. 

Although the system could use an upgrade, the content library itself is surprisingly large. The selection includes a mix of Hollywood blockbusters, international TV shows, live news, and regional programs that highlight Abu Dhabi and the U.A.E. 

It covers most interests, even if the responsiveness sometimes tests your patience.

The noise-canceling headphones provided in Etihad Airways First Class are functional but basic. The sound quality is clear enough for casual viewing, yet they lack the richness and comfort found in the premium headsets offered by airlines like Singapore Airlines or ANA.

Fortunately, there is one entertainment feature that makes up for it – the three exterior A380-800 cameras. The Etihad Airways system offers live views from the tail, nose, and underbelly of the aircraft, and as an aviation enthusiast, I find this endlessly fascinating. 

Watching takeoff and landing from the tail camera easily becomes my favorite part of the experience.

In-Flight Wi-Fi

Every Etihad Airways A380-800 First Class passenger receives a complimentary Wi-Fi voucher valid for the entire duration of the flight. The connection speed is moderate – not fast enough for heavy streaming but perfectly functional for email, messaging, and light browsing.

For other passengers, Etihad offers one of the most affordable Wi-Fi pricing models in the sky:

• 9.99 USD for unlimited data on a single flight.

Etihad also partners with Boingo Wi-Fi, meaning that travelers who hold a World Elite Mastercard can connect using their Boingo subscription credits. This makes staying connected much easier without needing to purchase separate access.

A380-800 First Class Lavatory (10/10)

At the very front of the Etihad Airways A380-800 First Class cabin, just to the right of the staircase and opposite The Residence, there are two lavatories reserved for First Class passengers. The layout is well-designed, with one offering extra space and the other featuring the Etihad Airways signature in-flight shower suite.

The left-hand lavatory does not include a shower, but it is significantly larger and more comfortable to use mid-flight. This is the one I prefer and recommend if you have the choice. Inside, the space is beautifully maintained and stocked with Acqua di Parma amenities, soft hand towels, and a well-lit makeup mirror.

The design is sleek, consistent with the rest of the Etihad Airways A380-800 First Class aesthetic – bright, elegant, and luxurious without being over the top. Even on a long flight, the lavatories remain clean and fully stocked, a testament to how well the crew manages the cabin.

The Etihad Airways Shower Experience

The right-hand lavatory is smaller but houses one of the most unique features: the Etihad Airways A380-800 onboard shower. 

Shortly after boarding, the flight attendants visit each First Class passenger to schedule shower times. I choose a slot about two and a half hours before landing, which feels perfect for freshening up before arrival in London.

Each passenger receives 30 minutes of total access to the shower suite, with five minutes of running hot water. Before my scheduled time, a dedicated shower attendant prepares the room by laying down fresh towels and placing Acqua di Parma bath amenities, including shampoo, conditioner, body soap, a scrub pad, and lotion.

When I step inside, I can control the water temperature and monitor the remaining water time using the display panel. I half-expect the first blast to be freezing, but to my relief, the water flows warm immediately. 

The shower itself feels surprisingly refreshing, and the experience of washing up while cruising at 40,000 feet is undeniably memorable.

That said, I admit that in-flight showers are a bit overrated. 

The novelty is incredible the first time, but in practical terms, most travelers could easily shower in the First Class Lounge before departure or freshen up at their hotel before heading to the airport.

Still, for me, it is an unforgettable first. The combination of luxury amenities, warm water, and the sheer uniqueness of showering above the clouds makes it a highlight worth experiencing… at least once.

Etihad Airways First Class Amenity Kit (6/10)

The Etihad Airways First Class amenity kit is another area where Etihad shows room for improvement – though I know they have already made major upgrades since my flight.

On my journey, the kit comes from Acqua di Parma, presented in a bright yellow zip pouch that feels premium at first glance but lacks the refinement found in other First Class offerings. 

Inside, the kit includes a modest selection of essentials: an unbranded eye mask, dental kit, hand sanitizer, sanitizing wipes, body lotion, lip balm, and a small bottle of fragrance. It covers the basics, but compared to airlines like All Nippon Airways (ANA) or Turkish Airlines, the selection feels underwhelming.

While the Acqua di Parma kit does its job, the new Etihad x Giorgio Armani offering appears to finally match the elegance and sophistication that the Etihad Airways First Class deserves.

Etihad Airways First Class Pajamas

Shortly after settling into my suite, a flight attendant delivers a large Etihad-branded fabric bag containing pajamas. These are part of a collaboration with the local Dubai brand A Friend of Mine, and they are impressively soft and breathable.

Even months later, I still wear the Etihad Airways pajamas around the house – they are that comfortable. They may not be the most luxurious in design, but they perfectly capture an understated sense of comfort.

Etihad Airways First Class Food And Beverage (8/10)

Once I settle into my Etihad Airways A380-800 First Class suite, the crew immediately sets the tone for the flight. 

A tray arrives with champagne, warm nuts, cheese, and olives. I sip my champagne and take in the beauty of the cabin, still in awe that this much space exists on a commercial aircraft.

Soon after, the flight attendants return with a serving of Arabic coffee and dates, one of the signature pre-departure touches from Etihad. It is my first time trying this classic Middle Eastern pairing, and it absolutely lives up to the hype.

Dinner Service And Buddy Dining Experience

Shortly after takeoff, the dinner service begins. I decide to join my wife in her suite for buddy dining, one of my favorite features of The Apartment. The crew quickly sets up both tables with precision, though I notice that the space feels a little tight once the full place settings arrive.

The meal starts with a First Class classic: caviar service.

It is presented beautifully with blinis, lemon, egg whites, egg yolks, minced onion, parsley, and sour cream. Caviar always feels like the ultimate way to begin a premium meal, and Etihad executes it perfectly. 

Alongside it, a warm bread basket appears, offering a nice variety of rolls and flatbreads.

Since I rarely drink alcohol, I explore the Etihad Airways mocktail selection, which turns out to be surprisingly strong. The butterfly pea mocktail – bright blue with a slightly floral taste – pairs beautifully with the caviar. 

For my appetizer, I order the Arabic mezze, while my wife opts for the Harirra soup. My mezze includes beetroot hummus, tabbouleh, and mutabal – all perfectly seasoned and vibrant in flavor. 

My wife enjoys her soup, a tomato-based broth with ground meat and vermicelli, describing it as rich and satisfying.

For the main course, I take a bit of a culinary leap and choose the camel kofta, while my wife goes for the cheese agnolotti. 

My dish is excellent – the camel meat is tender, the spiced rice bursts with cardamom and cumin, and the presentation feels thoughtful. It is my first time trying camel, and it does not disappoint.

The agnolotti, however, falls flat. The artichokes and truffle pesto fail to deliver much flavor, and the filling tastes underwhelming. The tomato sauce helps somewhat, but overall it feels like a miss compared to the depth of the Middle Eastern dishes.

For dessert, I select the dark chocolate fudge torte with gold leaf, while my wife goes for the cookies and cream Häagen-Dazs.

My torte looks stunning, but it is a little dense and heavy. The chocolate flavor is rich and bold, but I prefer a lighter texture. The gold leaf adds visual flair but nothing to the taste.

Pre-Arrival Meal

A few hours before landing, after my shower, it is time for the pre-arrival meal. I am still full from the earlier courses, but the Lounge and Grill menu offers too many interesting options to skip entirely.

I order the steak frites and beef sliders, while my wife chooses the red grouper. The steak frites are the clear winner – the thick-cut fries are perfectly seasoned, and the steak, while slightly chewy, tastes surprisingly good for something cooked at altitude. 

The sliders, though visually appealing, are dry and less satisfying.

To finish, I try the mango mojito mocktail, which is tangy, refreshing, and light – exactly what I need before landing. Between that and the butterfly pea mocktail earlier, I cannot pick a favorite. Both are excellent, and I highly recommend trying them if you prefer alcohol-free options.

Etihad Airways Staff And Service (8/10)

The Etihad Airways cabin crew set the tone for the entire experience. From the moment I board the Etihad Airways A380-800 First Class, every interaction feels thoughtful and perfectly timed. The flight attendants are warm, attentive, and genuinely enthusiastic about creating a seamless experience.

Throughout the flight, they check in frequently but never intrusively. They anticipate needs before I have to ask – refilling drinks, setting up the dining table, and clearing plates with impeccable timing. Everything feels smooth and effortless, the kind of attentive service that defines a top-tier First Class product.

Professionalism vs Personality

I have always preferred crews that lean slightly more personable than strictly formal, and this team strikes that balance beautifully. They maintain professionalism while still showing warmth and approachability, which makes the experience feel more human.

It is worth noting that Etihad Airways crews sometimes vary in style – some lean toward a polished, almost hotel-like professionalism, while others bring a friendlier, conversational touch. 

This particular crew lands somewhere in the middle, which I personally love. It feels genuine, relaxed, and perfectly aligned with the calm luxury that defines the Etihad Airways A380-800 First Class experience.

Final Thoughts

Flying in the Etihad Airways A380-800 First Class suite is an experience that feels almost mythical – especially knowing that these aircraft were once destined for permanent retirement. The fact that Etihad brought the A380-800 back to life makes every moment onboard feel even more special.

Yes, the product is beginning to show its age in some areas. 

The in-flight entertainment screen, headphones, and the older Acqua di Parma amenity kit on my particular flight could all use a refresh. But despite these small signs of aging, The Apartment continues to hold its own against even the newest First Class cabins in the sky.

The design remains one of the most spacious and well-thought-out in commercial aviation. The combination of a separate seat and full-length bed, along with the closing doors and personal vanity, creates a private haven unlike anything else. 

The genuine warmth and attention to detail of the crew elevate the experience further, reminding me why Etihad Airways continues to stand out as one of the most refined and passenger-focused airlines in the world.

Ultimately, the Etihad Airways A380-800 First Class suite represents a perfect balance between timeless innovation and understated elegance. The sheer space, culinary quality, and exceptional service make it one of the most iconic First Class experiences in the world.

If you ever find award space, it is absolutely worth the effort and potential short notice. This flight proves that even after a decade, the Etihad Airways vision of luxury travel remains ahead of its time.

Kevin Zhao