Emirates vs Etihad Airways 2026
Deciding between Emirates and Etihad Airways? Both are ranked in AirConnect's airline database across 10 dimensions and 6 traveller personas. Here's how they compare head-to-head, with a clear pick for each type of traveller.
Overall
Emirates
90/100
Overall
Etihad Airways
90/100
Tie across 10 rating dimensions
Which is better for your travel type?
💼
Business Traveller
Emirates
89/100
Etihad Airways
90/100
Punctuality, wifi, lounge access, seat comfort, easy check-in.
👨👩👧
Family
Emirates
91/100
Etihad Airways
91/100
Crew friendliness with kids, entertainment, baggage generosity, on-time.
🌏
Long-Haul
Emirates
92/100
Etihad Airways
92/100
Seat comfort, food quality, entertainment, aircraft cleanliness.
🛫
Short-Haul
Emirates
88/100
Etihad Airways
89/100
On-time performance, value for money, baggage, easy check-in.
💰
Budget
Emirates
87/100
Etihad Airways
88/100
Value for money, baggage rules, no hidden fees, punctuality.
🥂
Premium Cabin
Emirates
92/100
Etihad Airways
91/100
Crew service, food, seat comfort, wifi, entertainment, cleanliness.
Rating by dimension
| Dimension | Emirates | Etihad Airways |
|---|---|---|
| 😊Crew Friendliness | 4.6 | 4.6 |
| ✨Aircraft Cleanliness | 4.7 | 4.7 |
| 💺Seat Comfort | 4.6 | 4.6 |
| 🍽️Food Quality | 4.5 | 4.5 |
| 🎬Entertainment | 4.9 | 4.7 |
| ⏰On-Time Performance | 4.4 | 4.5 |
| 🧳Baggage Handling | 4.5 | 4.5 |
| 📱Check-in Experience | 4.5 | 4.5 |
| 💰Value for Money | 4.0 | 4.0 |
| 📶Wi-Fi Quality | 4.3 | 4.3 |