Many of my friends who do not travel for business often are aghast at the prices of a business class ticket versus that of an economy ticket. When it comes to long-haul flights, I am very fortunate to be able to fly business class for work and appreciate the luxuries and details that go into the differences between the cabins. As in the international business world, most travelers do not have the luxury of being able to rest after a long flight, but have to step off the aircraft and into the office. The comfort a business class seat offers helps the passenger to get off the plane ready for work, instead of being cramped, sleepy and ineffective.

A perfect example is the most recent flight I took, 12 hours from JFK to Abu Dhabi on board Etihad Airways. Several of the people I spoke to on board were going right to the office after a quick check-in at the hotel and without much sleep on the plane. However, thanks to the superior product and service on board Etihad, the task to go straight to work is difficult, but not nearly as bad it sounds.

With my colleagues, I often talk about all the small details it takes to make an experience run smoothly — the inspections that planes and hotel rooms go through before you enter them, or the procedures of a 5-star kitchen to make your evening revolve around a perfect meal. Of course, all these small details cost money and are a major reason for the price differential between classes on board an airplane.

After my most recent flight, I can say that travelers to the Middle East looking for ultimate comfort and class should keep Etihad Airways at the top of their list. My Pearl Class (business class) seat went full flat. Seats are configured back-to-back, so my window seat practically gave me total privacy from the rest of the cabin and a proper flat bed to sleep on. There was a 15-inch TV screen and over 74 movies and other entertainment options.

I spent some time speaking with other guests on board, and one who travels to India often — as he was that day – told me he preferred Etihad’s business class to that of Emirates and also gave kudos to Qatar Airways. Keep an eye out for the young Etihad fleet, which now flies to 45 destinations, as it will continue to be a key player.

– Alex Young, Vice President and Associate Publisher