Etihad makes 'great bet' on premium travel with new A330 Neo and A321LR cabins

Etihad Airways has introduced upgraded cabins for its existing Airbus A321LR narrow-body aircraft and upcoming Airbus A330 Neo wide-body jets, enhancing its premium travel offerings. This strategic move aligns with the rising demand for seats in the front of the plane. The new cabin designs aim to refine Etihad's commitment to delivering a premium experience, replicating the "look and feel" of modern Abu Dhabi throughout the journey and in airport lounges. Consistency across the airline's diverse fleet is also a key focus.

Etihad Airways' CEO, Antonaldo Neves, expressed confidence in this bet, stating, "I have no doubt, I'm 100 per cent sure it's a great bet." Speaking at the Arabian Travel Market, Neves emphasized the "next generation of products," highlighting the brighter, lighter, and modern aspects of the new cabins. The airline is also working on first-class upgrades for the A350-1000 and Boeing 777X, scheduled to join its fleet in 2029 and 2032, respectively.

The new A330 Neos are set to enter service in September 2027, with 15 A330s joining the fleet over a period of five years. Additionally, Etihad has announced a $1 billion program for retrofitting older Boeing 777s and 787s by the fourth quarter of 2027, aiming to achieve a completely new look and feel for the airline by mid-to-end 2028.