Etihad Airways, under the leadership of its Chief Commercial Officer Arik De, is preparing to announce around 10 new routes, with nine of them being brand new for the airline. The new network additions will be revealed in late November, and De mentioned that the growth is made possible by new aircraft deliveries. Etihad will receive its first Airbus A321LR jets next year, which are designed for medium- and long-haul routes that cannot sustain larger aircraft, allowing the airline to reach destinations such as Italy or Thailand from its Abu Dhabi hub.
The addition of the Airbus A321LR jets has sparked industry speculation that Etihad may install a widebody-style premium product on these aircraft. This would offer greater consistency for business class passengers on connecting itineraries, as the airline’s current fleet features older recliner chairs in the business class cabin. With Etihad’s parent company operating an in-house aircraft interiors business, there is potential for a more bespoke design for the premium product on the A321LR. The airline aims to reveal the interiors of the new jet around mid-Q1 and is currently accepting pitches from airports interested in joining the Etihad network.
After a challenging period in the mid-2010s, Etihad has bounced back from the pandemic with an ambitious growth plan known as ‘Journey 2030’. This plan aims to significantly increase the airline’s capacity and market reach by the end of the decade, with the fleet playing a crucial role in realizing this vision. Unlike its rival Emirates, Etihad operates a diverse selection of aircraft, ranging from the A320 to the A380 super jumbo, giving it the flexibility to reach niche markets that may not be served by larger twin-aisle aircraft.
With Etihad firmly back in growth mode, the 10 new routes are unlikely to be the last, according to the CCO Arik De. The airline is currently in discussions with airports interested in joining its network, signaling further expansion in the future. De also hinted at a new brand refresh event in mid-Q1 2025, signaling a modernization of the airline’s brand to align with its ambitious plans for growth. Additionally, enhancements to the onboard Wi-Fi are in the pipeline, reflecting the industry trend towards improved in-flight connectivity among airlines.
Overall, Etihad Airways is set to undergo significant changes in the coming years, with new routes, aircraft deliveries, and a brand refresh on the horizon. The airline’s growth plans under the leadership of CEO Antonoaldo Neves aim to position it as a strong competitor in the aviation industry by the end of the decade. With a diverse fleet and a focus on niche markets, Etihad is well-positioned to expand its reach and attract more passengers in the future.
