Prime Highlights
- Etihad Airways put first Airbus A321LR into service, gold standard for narrowbody luxury travel.
- The plane begins service on 1 August 2025 from Abu Dhabi to Phuket.
Key Facts
- First of 30 Airbus A321LRs that will join Etihad’s growing fleet.
- The plane will be flown by Etihad on medium-haul networks out of North Africa, Europe, and Asia.
Key Background
Etihad Airways has taken delivery of its first Airbus A321LR aircraft, marking a key milestone in the fleet modernization program. The single-aisle aircraft was delivered to Abu Dhabi from Hamburg and will begin deployment into commercial operations later this August. It’s the first of 30 planes the airline purchased to expand its medium-haul operations and deliver a more enhanced passenger experience on single-aisle flights.
A321LR has been created to deliver an unparalleled comfort experience in the single-aisle segment. In particular, it is the first to offer private First Class Suites on a single-aisle aircraft. Suites feature lie-flat beds, sliding door privacy, 20-inch 4K monitors, wireless charging, Bluetooth audio, and personalized companion seating — releasing a wide-body experience on a more fuel-efficient aircraft.
Business Class has 14 lie-flat seats in a 1-1 herringbone layout. The seats feature onboard high-definition 17.3-inch monitors and personal power outlets. Economy Class is significantly improved as well with 144 ergonomic seats and expanded overhead storage bins, providing 13.3-inch screens, USB power ports, and space for ample legroom.
Connectivity is also a plus on this plane. The aircraft has high-speed Viasat Wi-Fi with gate-to-gate internet connectivity. The amenity is a reflection of Etihad’s dedication to combining luxury and technology and its attempts to redefine the passenger experience.
A321LR will start operations on Abu Dhabi–Phuket and increase successively to hubs such as Bangkok, Milan, Paris, Zurich, Copenhagen, Tunis, and others. The enhanced support for the new fleet is part of Etihad’s “Journey 2030” plan to carry 38 million annual passengers and solidifies Abu Dhabi as a global aviation hub.
