I toured Etihad's new first and business cabins coming to future Airbus jets in 2027. These 8 things surprised me most.
Etihad is bringing a new Airbus aircraft to its fleet in 2027, and I got an early look at its premium seats. Here's what future passengers can expect.
As a frequent business class traveler on Middle Eastern airlines, I was impressed by Etihad's new first and business-class cabins set to debut on their future Airbus A330neos in 2027. During a visit to Dubai's Arabian Travel Market trade show, Etihad unveiled mock-ups of the premium cabins for their upcoming fleet expansion. The new A330neos will enter service in September 2027, offering regional and medium-haul routes from Abu Dhabi.
The first-class suites feature four seats, a large 32-inch 4K screen with Bluetooth connectivity, wireless charging, and a mini vanity known as the "personal powder room." Each suite also includes a companion seat, a sleek control panel, and a 60-watt USB-C outlet. Business class, on the other hand, offers 24 seats with a 17.3-inch screen, a bed for lying flat, and a control panel with settings for lighting, seat positions, and privacy. Both cabins share an integrated power outlet and headphone storage.
Key observations from my tour of the future A330neo cabins include:
1. The first-class suite feels more like a hotel room than an airline seat, with premium materials and finishes.
2. The 32-inch 4K screen is impressive but not necessarily more spacious than business class.
3. Bluetooth connectivity allows passengers to pair their own noise-canceling headphones with the entertainment system.
4. Wireless charging, control panels, and USB-C outlets are conveniently located for easy access.
5. The buddy seat in first class could double as a compact coworking space but may be cramped for taller passengers.
6. The personal powder room is a hidden compartment with a mirror and toiletries, catering to first-class passengers.
7. The privacy doors work well in providing a sense of seclusion, making the seat feel like a personal room in the sky.
8. Despite some trade-offs, both first and business classes seem closely connected, with business class offering many of the same perks in a more compact space.
Written by urgent.news from Business Insider's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
