Etihad Airways has introduced a new passenger experience for its Airbus A350-1000. If you have forgotten just how much groundbreaking design went into those cabins, follow these links for in-depth stories of Etihad’s A380 and B787 designs, including the opulent but surprisingly space-efficient Residence.
Etihad’s first A350-1000 (registration A6-XWB) is the first of five set to join the fleet over the coming months, to be deployed on short to mid-range routes in Q2, including Mumbai and Delhi, before being introduced on ultra-long-haul operations to Chicago and New York from JulyThe aircraft has been named Sustainability50, with a unique livery in recognition of the 50th anniversary of the federation of the UAE and Etihad’s commitment to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050
As with its A380s and B787s, Etihad’s A350 cabin interior design is influenced by its Abu Dhabi base, with a signature lighting scheme that emulates natural ambient light and the shadows cast by palm trees, creating a restful ambiance. The airline says that the lighting, combined with the low cabin noise of the A350, creates an optimum environment for sleeping, which also reduces the effects of jetlagThe 371-seat aircraft has 44 ‘Business Studios’ and 327 economy seats: the airline has not opted for a first-class cabin in its A350sEtihad has moved away from the bespoke seating platforms of its A380s and B787s, to a catalogue option: the reverse-herringbone Super Diamond platform from Collins AerospaceThe Super Diamond gives Etihad a forward-facing seat with direct aisle access, a width of over 20in, a 79in-long fully flat bed, and ample storageEtihad opted for a sliding door for the Super Diamond, which creates a private suite experience, and with no centre overhead bins, a real feeling of space is created in the business class cabinThe decorative scheme is distinctly Etihad, with gold finishes on the trim and the lighting units, a stone effect on the side furniture, rich brown leather on the headrest and armrest, and soft textiles on the seat and sleeping surface. The bedding further reinforces the airline’s brand, with a signature brown duvet and a pillow cover that echoes the Etihad livery. Passengers can also enjoy the 18.5in IFE displaysThe 18.5in IFE displays in business class are complemented by noise-cancelling headphones, a wireless charging pad for devices, and Bluetooth headphone pairingThe 327-seat economy cabin (in a 3-3-3 arrangement) includes 45 ‘Economy Space’ seats with an additional 4in of legroomRecaro’s CL3710 seat was selected following extensive customer trials, based on comfort and sustainability metrics. The seats feature Etihad’s signature supportive headrest, with an ‘ear’ at one side that gives additional side support to the head, aiding sleep and adding a sense of privacyThe seatbacks feature 13.3in IFE displays, USB charging and Bluetooth headphone pairing. The experience is enhanced with blankets, pillows and amenity kits on longer flights, as well as complimentary dining and beveragesThe Super Diamond is good, but this may be the best seat in the planeFormed as a partnership between Etihad, Airbus and Rolls Royce in 2021, the Sustainability50 programme will see Etihad’s A350s used as flying testbeds of new initiatives, procedures and technologies to reduce carbon emissions, building on the learnings derived from Etihad’s similar Greenliner programme for the Boeing B787 aircraft type. The Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-powered A350 is one of the most efficient aircraft types in the world
Ever since his first flight on a TriStar, Adam has loved air travel, and since becoming editor of the Aircraft Interiors International brand he has really enjoyed the opportunity to be involved with the latest aircraft and airline products before they are even launched. Adam co-ordinates the running of the magazine, from commissioning articles and artwork, to ensuring that high standards of quality are maintained, as well as managing online content. Adam is proud to sit on the jury of the Crystal Cabin Awards and to have laid on the bed in Etihad's Residence.
By Adam Gavine
