✈️ Introduction
If you’ve ever wondered whether Etihad Airways still has first class, you’re not alone. Many seniors in the US planning long-haul trips ask this exact question. The answer is yes — but with some important details you should know.
👉 Need help figuring out which Etihad routes still offer first class? Call 877-764-3622 for senior-friendly travel guidance while you read this guide.
Yes, Etihad still offers first class, but only on select aircraft. You’ll find it mainly on the Airbus A380 (recently reintroduced on certain routes) and on a few Boeing 787 and 777 jets. Unlike business class, first class availability is limited, so it pays to check before booking.
📊 Tip: Tools like SeatGuru or FlightRadar24 can confirm which aircraft and routes currently feature first class.
A private suite with a reclining chair and a separate bed.
Spacious enough to walk around.
Senior-friendly: the ability to stretch, lie flat, and rest properly reduces stiffness on long flights.
Anecdote: one senior traveler shared that Etihad’s First Apartment was the only time they woke up after a long-haul flight without back pain.
The crown jewel of Etihad: a three-room “flying apartment” with a living room, private bedroom, and shower.
Includes a personal butler and chef.
Note: Only one Residence exists per aircraft, making it rare and extremely premium.
📸 Visual suggestion: photos or illustrations showing the difference between a First Apartment and The Residence.
Beds & Seating: True lie-flat options, often separate from the chair.
Dining: Multi-course meals, with flexible dining times.
Wellness: Luxury amenity kits, inflight showers (A380), and quieter cabins.
Accessibility: Extra support from cabin crew, priority boarding, and assistance with mobility.
📊 Mayo Clinic studies show that better rest in lie-flat seating reduces fatigue and jet lag for older travelers.
Etihad First Class Lounge (Abu Dhabi): Includes a spa, fine dining, and private relaxation rooms.
Ground Transfers: Chauffeur service and priority boarding reduce stress for seniors.
Senior benefit: less time standing in lines and more personalized service.
📸 Visual idea: Comparison graphic of an “economy lounge experience vs first class lounge.”
There’s no denying that first class comes at a premium — often several thousand dollars more than business class. But for seniors who value wellness and rest, it can be worth it.
💡 Smart strategies:
Use Etihad Guest miles for upgrades.
Travel off-peak for better availability.
Book one-way in first class (and return in business) to balance cost and comfort.
👉 Want to know if Etihad First Class is worth it for your trip? Call 877-764-3622 for senior-focused booking advice.
“The First Apartment gave me the first full night’s sleep I’ve ever had on a plane.”
“The lounge spa treatment eased my arthritis before the flight — it made a huge difference.”
Balanced note: some seniors prefer the practicality (and lower cost) of business class, especially since Etihad’s business seats are already lie-flat.
First Class: unmatched privacy, more space, luxury dining, and exclusive lounges.
Business Class: lie-flat comfort, excellent meals, and significantly more affordable.
📸 Visual: simple comparison table showing differences.