With this early flight (take-off at 8 am), we arrived at the Etihad Airways First Class Lounge in Abu Dhabi at around 6.30 am. We have already done a review of this lounge here.

Service is at the table, with white tablecloths and elegant dinnerware.

Knowing that the meal on board our First Class flight would be copious, we made do with a dairy with fresh fruit and a glass of mimosa (champagne + orange juice).

All this while enjoying a beautiful sunrise and a fine view over the tarmac of Abu Dhabi International Airport.

After a good time in the Etihad Airways First Class Lounge, it’s time to board the Etihad Airways Boeing 787-9.

We’ll be sitting in center seats 1D-1G. Note the presence of doors on board Etihad Airways First Class.

Center seats are ideal if, like us, you’re travelling in pairs. They allow you to chat and enjoy your meal together.

Of course, if you’re travelling alone, choose one of the four window seats available in this Etihad Airways First Class cabin.

The seats are upholstered in beige leather, in the company’s colours, and offer plenty of personal space. For example, another passenger can sit on the ottoman for a private dinner.

In the bed position, you can close the doors of your suite and find yourself in your cocoon. Note the addition of a mattress topper, pillows and comforter. As well as pyjamas.

Etihad Airways First Class onboard service is of a good standard (but does not match Emirates or Qatar Airways in Qsuite).

First, you can choose a welcome cocktail, which will be served with an amuse-bouche.

For starters, we recommend Caviar. This is served in a small individual pot (whereas other airlines such as Emirates or Lufthansa offer much larger portions).

Then, for the main courses, you’ll have a choice of meat or fish dishes. We’ll be choosing Middle Eastern dishes.

And cheese with rolls and various fruits.

During the flight, as I did, note that you can order tea or a cappuccino.

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This 7-hour flight on board this Etihad Airways First Class aircraft went by very quickly (too quickly, in fact). Travelling in First Class is always a moment you treat yourself to (or, in this case, a moment for your couple).

Given the slight fare difference between Business Class (45,000 Aeroplan points) and First Class (65,000 Aeroplan points), don’t hesitate to take the plunge: you won’t be disappointed!