Review: Etihad Airways A350 Business Class Chicago to Abu Dhabi

Recently, Etihad Airways introduced the new Airbus A350-1000 aircraft into its fleet. As part of the introduction, the airline debuted an all-new business class suite, replacing their previous flagship product.

Although the new aircraft doesn’t feature the renowned Residences and First Class Apartments of yore, Etihad Airways has installed a gorgeous new business class suite on the Airbus A350. On my way out to the Middle East to take part in the 2022 FIFA World Cup festivities, I found myself in a position to give Etihad Airways’s newest product a try.

Etihad Airways A350 Business Class – Booking

I booked this one-way business class flight from Chicago to Abu Dhabi using 85,000 Aeroplan points, prior to the September 1 devaluation. The same flight booked now would cost 90,000 points, which isn’t a significantly greater amount, but is more than it used to be nonetheless.

As an Aeroplan Express Aeroplan Reserve cardholder, I was able to take advantage of the American Express 25% points back promotion at the time, which effectively brought down the cost to only 63,750 Aeroplan points total.

Etihad Airways A350 Business Class – Ground Experience

The ground experience in Chicago is rather mediocre, as Etihad Airways uses the contracted Swissport Lounge alongside many other airlines.

The Swissport Lounge is a small, somewhat unremarkable space with only a handful of seats. There isn’t a very wide selection of food or drinks, and the lounge lacks windows to let in natural light or offer views of the apron.

Instead, it’s a very modest space to pass time in before a flight, and I wouldn’t say it’s really worth arriving any farther in advance than you need to if you’re flying with Etihad Airways out of Chicago.

Etihad Airways A350 Business Class – Cabin

Upon stepping into the business class cabin, I was immediately captivated by the sheer amount of open space in the cabin. When designing the product, Etihad Airways opted not to install overhead bins over the centre seats, and according to the airline, the ceilings are the highest in the industry.

The cabin is pristine and gorgeous, with cream hues alongside licorice and golden accents, which are very much in keeping with Etihad Airways’s style. At the front of the cabin is a striking metallic gold Etihad…