My Journey with Etihad Airways: An Honest Look
By Kofi Owusu
Wow, Etihad Airways! When I first heard about this airline, I thought, “Chale, this one go be something else!” I mean, with all the hype around it, especially being dubbed the “national airline of the UAE,” it had to be a big deal, right? As someone from Ghana, I’ve had my fair share of flying experiences, both local and international, and I was curious to see what Etihad had to offer. So, let me share my thoughts on this airline based on my actual experience.
The Booking Process
Let’s start with the booking process, which, honestly, was as smooth as kelewele on a Saturday night. I jumped on their website, and it was straightforward. No wahala, just input your details and boom! I got my ticket. They even have this feature for multiple destinations that I found really useful. You know how we sometimes want to visit multiple places in one trip? This feature made planning easier. However, I must say, the prices can be a bit steep, especially for us Ghanaians who are trying to save a few cedis.
Check-In Experience
Now, the check-in experience was where things got a bit tricky. At Kotoka International Airport, I faced some delays, and I could see the frustration on the faces of my fellow passengers. It’s like when you’re waiting for your jollof to cook, and it seems to be taking forever. The staff were professional and friendly, but the queues were long. I’d recommend getting to the airport early because you never know what might come up.
Cabin Experience
When I finally boarded the plane, my heart skipped a beat. The cabin looked sleek and modern. They really did well with the interior design. The seats were comfortable, and there was enough legroom for my 6-foot frame (no small feat, I tell you). They even had this entertainment system with a variety of movies, shows, and music. I mean, I could binge-watch my favorite Ghanaian movies while flying. Talk about a win!
In-Flight Service
Now let’s talk about the in-flight service. The crew? Super friendly. I felt like I was flying with family. They were always around, checking if I needed anything. I ordered the jollof rice (of course, right?) and let me tell you, it was decent. Not as spicy as what we get back home, but it hit the spot. You know how you sometimes crave the taste of home while you're away? This meal did the trick, but I wish they could have added a bit more pepper.
However, there were moments when I felt the service could have been more attentive. On one occasion, I was waiting for a drink for a long time, and it felt like I was back at the market waiting for my turn. You know how we can be, very patient until we can’t be anymore.
Comfort and Cleanliness
In terms of comfort, I was impressed. The cabin was clean, and I could see the staff regularly sanitizing the areas. With all that’s been happening in the world, it was reassuring to see them take cleanliness seriously. I even felt comfortable taking off my shoes and stretching my legs; it was that cozy.
Arrival Experience
Touchdown in Abu Dhabi was smooth, and I was excited to step out and explore. The airport itself is massive! It felt like a whole city inside. The immigration process was relatively quick, and soon I was off to my destination. I appreciated the efficiency of the airport staff; they were on point!
Overall Impressions
So, what’s my overall impression of Etihad Airways? Well, I think they are doing a lot of things right. The experience was generally pleasant, with a few hiccups here and there. The cabin crew was lovely, the in-flight entertainment was great, and the food was decent. But then again, the check-in experience and occasional lapses in service could use some improvement.
I would say if you’re considering flying with them, just keep your expectations balanced. It’s not the absolute best, but it’s definitely not the worst either. As someone who’s flown a lot, I appreciate when airlines go the extra mile, and Etihad has shown potential.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, flying is about the journey. Whether you're heading to Dubai for business or a family visit, it’s good to know that there are options out there. Etihad Airways, in my opinion, is a solid choice for those looking to explore the Middle East or connect to other destinations. Just make sure you pack a little patience for the airport experience.
What do you think? Have you flown with Etihad before? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences!