Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the UAE, operates multiple daily flights between Abu Dhabi (AUH) and Colombo (CMB), catering to both business and leisure travelers. With the recent opening of Zayed International Airport, we were eager to experience Etihad’s Economy Class on this short-haul route and see how the airline compares to competitors flying to Sri Lanka.
Review of Etihad Airways Economy Class – Details
- Airline: Etihad Airways
- Route: Abu Dhabi (AUH) → Colombo (CMB)
- Flight Time: Approx. 4 hours 30 minutes
- Aircraft: Typically operated by an Airbus A320 or Boeing 787
- Seat Configuration: 3-3 (A320) or 3-3-3 (787) in Economy
- Class: Economy
- Booking Price: $$ – $$$ (Varies by season and fare type)
- Best For: Budget travelers, Sri Lankan expats, and transit passengers connecting via Abu Dhabi
Review of Etihad Airways Economy Class – Highlights
- New Zayed International Airport Experience – Departing from Abu Dhabi’s new Zayed International Airport was seamless and modern. The terminal is spacious, high-tech, and well-organized, making check-in, immigration, and boarding a breeze.
- Decent Seat Comfort – The Economy seats offer adequate legroom (typically 31-32 inches of pitch), and headrests are adjustable. If flying on the Boeing 787, you get larger windows and a quieter cabin.
- In-Flight Entertainment – The E-Box entertainment system features a good selection of movies, TV shows, and music, though A320 aircraft may have overhead screens instead of personal seatback screens. Wi-Fi is available for purchase, but speeds can be inconsistent. The ebox system means you can watch movies, streamed to your laptop, tablet or phone!
- Warm Meal Service – Despite being a short flight, Etihad serves a full meal in Economy Class, usually offering chicken, fish, or a vegetarian Sri Lankan option. The flavors are decent, though portions could be larger. See pictures below.
- Cabin Crew & Service – Etihad’s crew is professional and polite, ensuring a smooth flight experience. Service is efficient but not overly personalized, as expected in Economy Class.
Etihad Airways Economy Class Review – Things to Note
- Older A320 Aircraft on Some Flights – Not all flights feature the newer Boeing 787. Some routes use A320s with more basic seating and entertainment.
- Limited Legroom for Taller Passengers – The standard Economy seat pitch is fine for most, but those over 6 feet may find it tight. Bulkhead and exit row seats offer more space.
- No Amenity Kit in Economy – Unlike long-haul flights, Etihad does not provide amenity kits for this short route. Bring your own eye mask and travel essentials if needed.
- Wi-Fi Is Expensive – While Wi-Fi is available, pricing is on the higher side, and connection speeds aren’t always reliable.
- Abu Dhabi Transit Can Be Long – If you’re connecting through AUH, make sure you have a long enough layover to clear security and reach your gate. The new terminal has lounge options for those with extended waits.
Review of Etihad Airways Economy Class – Tips
- Check Your Aircraft Type Before Booking – If available, try to book a flight on the Boeing 787 for a more modern experience.
- Request a Special Meal – If you prefer a specific dietary option, pre-booking a meal ensures you get your preferred choice.
- Grab a Window Seat on the Right Side – For beautiful views of Sri Lanka’s coastline on arrival, pick a window seat on the right side of the plane.
- Consider a Paid Seat Selection – Standard seats are first-come, first-served, but paying for extra legroom (exit rows or bulkhead seats) may be worth it for comfort.
- Stay Hydrated – Flights between Abu Dhabi and Colombo can feel dry due to cabin air—bring a water bottle and stay hydrated.
- If you have any questions, ask in the comment section below!
Review of Etihad Airways Economy Class – Photos
Flying Etihad Airways Economy Class from Abu Dhabi (AUH) to Colombo (CMB)! Departing from the brand-new Zayed International Airport, we check out the Economy cabin, seat comfort, meal service, and in-flight entertainment. See how Etihad compares on this route and whether it’s worth flying!