138 AUH - Chic new Abu Dhabi, all business BeOnd, MAX flying challenge, humane low cost, wireless lavatory IFE

It's Alex and Paul, and it's another Alex (you've met her in 133!). She tells us all about BeOnd, the new all business class airlines that flies ex-EasyJet (!) 319s (!) to get you to the Maldives (did she enjoy the plane more than the beach?!). Humane versus non-humane low cost carriers: a new definition for IATA? The MAX flying challenge, or how to overcome the unhealthy relationship with a plane. Airport design and signage, another potential unhealthy relationship (it shouldn't be that hard!). Backpack travel, the way to avoid being made to check your carry-on. Make airport buses great again: do not put stickers on windows, do not darken the windows too much (WE WANT TO SEE THE APRON VIEWS!). Wifi naming: has anyone who implemented them actually flown an aircraft? Etihad 3.0, a new growth chapter (there will be doors in the forthcoming EY business class, but Paul does not think doors are very necessary). The new AUH is gorgeous, and a success: was its design process so long thought that it led to some quirks though? (whilst the path to the Etihad lounge is awkward, the delicious design of the gates is a win!). Lavatories breaks with the airline wireless headphones (and PLEASE add green noise—rain and thunder—as a feature on IFEs!!!). Follow Alex on LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/alexandravukolova Listen to her podcast, Sky Lounge: Apple Podcasts , Spotify And since Paul mentions it, here's the very good Air Show podcast (weekly and short, the opposite of this pod haha): Apple Podcasts , Spotify See you in 2-3 weeks for another episode (hint: closer to where Paul has never been) — For video, subscribe on Spotify or YouTube (or YouTube Music) Review, and rate us, on Apple Podcasts Follow us, and comment on: Instagram - Bluesky - Threads - Mastodon - Twitter/X Comment, like, review, and rate us, on Facebook Search for 'Layovers' on any podcast service (some direct links are on our website ) If we're missing somewhere, or for any feedback, let Paul know on Instagram - Threads - Mastodon - Bluesky - Twitter/X