What is the Difference Between Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways are both Middle Eastern carriers known for their excellent service and extensive route networks. Here are some key differences between the two airlines:

Routes and Destinations:

  • Qatar Airways is based in Doha, Qatar, and serves more than 170 destinations in over 80 countries.
  • Etihad Airways is based in Abu Dhabi, UAE, and has a more limited route network compared to Qatar Airways.

Loyalty Programs:

  • Qatar Airways has a more user-friendly loyalty program called Qatar Privilege Club.
  • Etihad Airways has a loyalty program called Etihad Guest, which offers some benefits like free seat selection for Etihad Guest Platinum members.

Inflight Entertainment:

  • Qatar Airways' inflight entertainment system, called Oryx One, offers up to 3000 entertainment options, including movies, series, TV programs, music, games, and reads.
  • Etihad Airways' inflight entertainment system is called E-BOX and offers hundreds of hours of entertainment, but it is not as extensive as Qatar Airways' Oryx One.

Food and Beverages:

  • Qatar Airways is known for its excellent food offerings in Business Class, with meals being comparable to First Class offerings on other airlines.
  • Etihad Airways also offers decent meals, but they are not as highly praised as Qatar Airways' offerings.

In-flight Comfort:

  • Qatar Airways offers duvets on medium-haul flights to increase sleeping comfort.
  • Etihad Airways only offers duvets on long-haul flights.

In summary, while both airlines offer excellent service and amenities, Qatar Airways is known for its more extensive route network, better inflight entertainment, and superior food offerings. Etihad Airways, on the other hand, provides a good onboard experience at a more affordable price.

Comparative Table: Qatar Airways vs Etihad Airways

Here is a table comparing the differences between Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways:

Feature Qatar Airways Etihad Airways
Hub Doha, Qatar Abu Dhabi, UAE
Destinations Over 170 in more than 80 countries Numerous destinations, including Chicago-O'Hare, New York-JFK, Washington-Dulles
Alliance Oneworld None
Seat Layout (Economy Class) Identical to its business-class seats but with lesser legroom 3-4-3 layout, comfortable with enough legroom
In-Flight Entertainment Movies from latest blockbusters to classics Limited menu and a variety of juices
Economy Class Facilities Provides Wi-Fi, but connection time out substantially sooner than Emirates Offers Wi-Fi and entertainment options
Loyalty Program Qatar Privilege Club Etihad Guest
Additional Fees Extra baggage allowance per kilogram: $8 to $55; Additional piece of luggage: $150 to $350 Regular seat selection: $0 for Etihad Guest members; Economy Space seat selection: $0 for Etihad Guest Platinum members

Please note that the information provided is based on the available search results and may not be exhaustive. It is always recommended to check with the respective airlines for the most up-to-date information.