Heard of Etihad Airways when trying, at the last minute, to find a flight to Colombo (from London). Was told by the travel agent that Etihad was a new airline, based in Abu Dhabi and offering very good introductory ticket prices. It worked out to a bargain 430 pounds (sterling) for a return ticket. Very good value.

The outbound flight was slightly delayed out of Heathrow. My travelling companion and myself checked in early to get extra legroom economy seats (he is 6'4). We succeeded in getting emergency exit seats which had plenty of leg room. The width was fine for someone of slim build.

The service was good on the whole. The crew were hardworking on all sectors and efficient. We were offered an upgrade to Business class on the Abu Dhabi to Colombo sectors. Yay!

We had a 13 hour transit in Abu Dhabi where the airline provided hotel accommodation and meals for the duration of the stay, which were of a good standard.

The return journey was also good. The only criticism I would have is that I wasn't offered my choice of meal on a single of the four sectors of the flight. Secondly, the Abu Dhabi to London sector was on an A340, which was very cramped and uncomfortable, and not as comfortable as the A330 on previous sectors. Why can't airlines make an announcement before a meal service to ask passengers to NOT recline their seats during meals, as a courtesy to other passengers??

Overall, a good value flight and a high standard of inflight service. An airline that deserves to succeed.