This week, Etihad announced a major upgrade to its widebody fleet: 32 new Airbus aircraft, set to arrive in 2027. The planes will consist of a mix of A330-900s, A350-1000s, and A350F freighters, through both direct orders and lease agreements. This news follows Etihad’s recent agreement with Boeing for 28 new widebody planes, growing the airline’s widebody fleet to more than 60.
The expansion strengthens Etihad’s long-haul network as the airline plans for future growth
To ensure delivery by 2027, Etihad had to act swiftly to lock in remaining early widebody delivery positions worldwide. That gives the airline new planes significantly quicker than the typical backlog. The aircraft are part of Etihad’s model for agility and expansion, providing a competitive advantage with long-haul capacity.
With the order, Etihad gets the following benefits (via Etihad):
- Additional A350-1000s strengthen long-haul capacity
- A350F freighters expand Etihad Cargo’s growing footprint in global trade flows
- A330-900s support mid-haul and regional growth during a period of extremely constrained widebody supply
Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “Securing 32 additional widebodies – with deliveries beginning in 2027 – demonstrates Etihad’s ability to move fast, secure scarce delivery positions, and stay ahead of global capacity constraints. These commitments ensure we can continue our growth trajectory, deliver more premium experiences, and bring even more visitors to Abu Dhabi.
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business, said: “Etihad Airways’ continued investment in our latest-generation widebody aircraft is a testament to the strength of our partnership and the shared vision we have for the future of aviation in the UAE and beyond. The combination of the A350 Family and A330neo will deliver unmatched efficiency and flexibility to Etihad’s operations, supporting its future development.”
