Up close with Etihad's new Airbus A380 first class apartments

Etihad Airways' new Airbus A380 first class apartments take off next week, but not before Australian Business Traveller had a chance to try them out.

Etihad's Airbus A380 First Class Apartments

With little niceties such as a chilled mini-bar and a private vanity mirror with make-up lighting in Etihad's A380 first class apartments, you'll feel like you've already reached your hotel before even leaving the tarmac.

Settle back in your reclining lounge chair...

... and put your feet up on the separate, full length ottoman:

After take-off, that transforms into a 204cm long, 66cm wide fully-flat bed – which the crew will prepare whenever it suits you.

Couples travelling together may wish to open a small privacy divider at the head of the bed for a little pillow talk or a good night kiss, available in six of the apartments:

Controls for the windows and lights are tucked away in the centre wall for easy access while you're resting...

... and if counting sheep isn't your thing, the wall-mounted TV screen pivots out to keep you entertained:

It's a touchscreen, although some travellers may find it easier to use the remote control, which sits atop USB power outlets and an HDMI input to connect your own electronic devices to the big screen:

As you rise from your slumber for the morning ahead, the TV folds away with ease to again face the reclining seat:

The windows you closed from the bed can be opened electronically – either by using the golden switches or on the digital control panel, found inside the armrest:

Releasing the button stops the blinds in their current position, which is great if you'd prefer just a little light at the crack of dawn.

The nightlight isn't a simple 'on/off' affair – a three-stage dimmer makes it a close substitute for a candle at dinner time, where there's also space to be joined by a companion:

Guests' meals are prepared to their personal tastes by Etihad's first class chefs, who are also experts at suggesting matching wines with each course.

Simple non-alcoholic drinks can be retrieved from the chilled mini-bar at any time without waiting for a quick response to your call bell.

Naturally, espresso coffee is also on the menu, as are a selection of teas. Both are served on a silver tray, which fits easily next to the seat or across from the ottoman:

You'll find the amenity kit almost hidden inside the vanity mirror compartment, which comes complete with strong make-up lighting to help limit queuing at the restrooms.

Last but certainly not least, each first class passenger can take a four-minute shower during the flight before landing refreshed for the busy day ahead.

Explore first class for yourself with this short video:

Etihad's First Class Apartments make their debut on December 27 on the airline's Airbus A380 flights from Abu Dhabi to London Heathrow, with Sydney added to the superjumbo map from June 1 2015.

Also read:

• Sneak peek: The Residence by Etihad private A380 VIP suite
• Photo tour: Etihad's Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner first class suites
• Inside Etihad's A380, Boeing 787 Business Studio business class
• Etihad reveals striking new uniforms

Chris Chamberlin is visiting Abu Dhabi as a guest of Etihad Airways.

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Chris C.

Chris is a a former contributor to Executive Traveller.