A three-room suite with a television, separate bathrooms, and premium amenities is a standard feature in five-star hotels. But what if these luxurious facilities were available on a flight? That is precisely what Etihad Airways offers with “The Residence” on its A380 aircraft.
Recently, a Chennai-based social media influencer couple took their followers on a virtual tour of this extravagant flying experience, sharing their insights on Instagram.
The couple, Keerthi and Aashish Manivannan, who have over 114,000 Instagram followers, posted about their journey in a post titled “Beyond First Class? The Residence on Etihad’s A380.” Their travel itinerary included a flight from Paris to Hyderabad, with a layover in Abu Dhabi. The post also highlighted that Etihad’s A380 operates between Paris and Abu Dhabi.
“We flew from Paris – Abu Dhabi – Hyderabad, and the A380 flies between Paris and Abu Dhabi,” they mentioned in their Instagram post.
The Etihad Residence Experience
For travelers flying in business class, first class, or premium suites, the luxury experience often begins long before they board the flight. The couple’s journey was no exception, as they received an exclusive welcome at the First Class Lounge at Abu Dhabi International Airport.
According to their post, the lounge offered gourmet à la carte meals, a dedicated play area for children, shower suites, private cabins for families, and sleeping pods.
Once on board, the couple described their experience as the closest they have ever been to flying on a private jet.
A Three-Room Flying Suite
The highlight of their journey was the “3-room cabin” that they had all to themselves, located near the nose of the aircraft. The spacious lounge area featured two large sofa seats and a big-screen television. Adjacent to this was a dedicated shower area and a restroom. Further inside the suite was a full-size bed, complete with “pillows, duvets, and bedding.”
Among the many premium services available, the couple noted the convenience of “The cabin crew makes the bed for you.”
Other exclusive features, such as anytime gourmet dining, inflight WiFi, and the sheer space and privacy offered by “The Residence,” add to the appeal of this ultra-luxurious experience. Currently, Etihad operates just one such suite on each of its A380 aircraft.
Exclusive Washroom Amenities
The suite’s private washroom was another standout feature, equipped with a Giorgio Armani amenity kit containing creams, eye masks, socks, and other essential toiletries. Additionally, sleepwear from the same designer brand was provided, along with “lots of gourmet chocolates.”
Fine Liquor Selection Onboard
For those who enjoy premium drinks, the couple noted the availability of an extensive selection of expensive wines, champagnes, and other premium liquors, making the experience comparable to that of flying on a private jet.
“The experience was amazing, almost like flying a private jet, and we had the best time,” said the couple, emphasizing that their review was not an advertisement or a brand collaboration.
Netizens React
The couple’s Instagram post quickly gained traction, with many social media users admiring their luxurious experience and appreciating the joy they shared as a family.
“The real wealth is her family; they are so happy together and complete,” commented a user named Aggan.
Another user, Rajesh Kumar, praised the suite’s spaciousness, noting that “It actually looks better than most private jets; the amount of space is insane.”
The couple’s journey offered their followers a glimpse into one of the most opulent travel experiences available today, highlighting the exclusivity of Etihad Airways’ A380 Residence.