Etihad Airways Redefines Narrowbody Luxury with the All-New Airbus A321LR
Wide-body comfort, narrow-body convenience – the future of short and medium-haul flying arrives August 1, 2025.
Etihad Airways is once again setting new benchmarks in aviation, unveiling its all-new Airbus A321LR – a game-changing aircraft that brings the airline’s famed wide-body luxury to short and medium-haul routes.
Entering service on 1 August 2025, the A321LR is more than just a fleet upgrade. It’s a clear statement of Etihad’s bold vision for the future: offering the same signature First, Business, and Economy experience passengers have come to expect on long-haul flights, in a sleek, efficient single-aisle aircraft.
A New Era of Flying
“This aircraft proves our commitment to luxury, customer experience, and connectivity,” said Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways. “We’ve taken the best of our wide-body experience and adapted it for the A321LR, creating a seamless, elevated journey – no matter the route.”
With ten aircraft entering the fleet this year, Etihad’s A321LRs will operate from Abu Dhabi to key global cities including Paris, Milan, Zurich, Bangkok, Copenhagen, Riyadh, Athens, and more.
The First Suite: Luxury, Redefined
The all-new First Suite on the A321LR marks a milestone for single-aisle aircraft. Each jet includes just two private First Suites, offering:
- A fully lie-flat bed in an enclosed suite with a sliding door
- A 20” 4K entertainment screen with Bluetooth audio and wireless charging
- An additional seat and table, so guests can dine or relax with a companion
This ultra-exclusive space is more than a seat – it’s a sanctuary, with bespoke design touches and personalised service that begins well before take-off.
Business: Spacious, Seamless, Sophisticated
Etihad’s new Business Class cabin mirrors the luxury of its wide-body aircraft with:
- 14 fully flat beds in a 1-1 herringbone layout
- Direct aisle access for every guest
- 17.3” 4K entertainment screens, wireless charging, and Bluetooth connectivity
- Thoughtfully designed stowage and enhanced privacy
Economy: Generous Comfort, Smart Design
Economy Class features 144 seats with:
- Up to 5” recline and industry-leading 18.4” width
- 13.3” 4K touchscreen displays and USB charging
- Access to Etihad’s next-gen inflight entertainment system
- Enhanced ergonomics and clever storage for a more enjoyable ride
Always Connected
Every A321LR is fitted with Viasat’s high-speed Wi-Fi, offering gate-to-gate connectivity and streaming across all cabins. Guests can watch live TV, browse, or game mid-air, ensuring productivity or entertainment from departure to arrival.
First Beyond the Cabin
The First experience begins the moment a booking is made. Etihad’s new 24/7 First Concierge delivers personalised travel planning. On the ground, First guests enjoy:
- Private chauffeur service to and from the airport
- Dedicated check-in, fast-track security, and access to the Etihad First Lounge
- In Abu Dhabi, complimentary Home Check-In and Land & Leave for a baggage-free airport experience
- Private limousine transfers to the aircraft door, when boarding from remote stands
“First isn’t just a seat – it’s an experience,” Neves said. “We’re combining classic elegance with cutting-edge convenience to set a new standard for premium travel.”
Looking Ahead
The A321LR is central to Etihad’s Journey 2030 strategy – doubling its fleet, tripling passenger numbers, and opening 16 new destinations in 2025 alone. As the airline continues to grow, these aircraft will help Etihad connect more cities with premium service and sustainability in mind.
From champagne and caviar in First to fast Wi-Fi in Economy, the A321LR ensures that every detail of the Etihad experience is elevated – no matter your seat.