Etihad expands long-haul capacity with major Airbus order at Dubai Airshow 2025
Abu Dhabi carrier confirms 32 new Airbus Aircraft, total 60 widebodies this year
ABU DHABI – Etihad Airways has announced a major expansion of its widebody fleet, securing 32 additional Airbus aircraft in a move that underscores the airline’s rapid growth and strategic agility.
Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2027, making use of some of the earliest widebody slots available globally.
This latest order brings Etihad’s total new widebody commitments for 2025 to 60 aircraft across Airbus and Boeing, reinforcing its position as one of the world’s fastest-growing full-service carriers.
Fleet composition
The 32-aircraft order includes a mix of A350-1000s, A350F freighters, and A330-900s, sourced through both direct purchases and lease agreements. The A350-1000s will bolster Etihad’s long-haul capacity, while the A350F freighters expand the airline’s cargo footprint amid growing global trade flows. The A330-900s are expected to support medium-haul and regional operations, particularly during a period of constrained widebody availability.
Etihad will now operate the full Airbus widebody family, including the A380, the A350 line including freighters, and the A330neo, providing the airline with flexibility across long-haul, medium-haul, and cargo operations.
Strategic advantage
By securing these early delivery positions, Etihad has demonstrated an ability to move quickly in a competitive market, avoiding the delays typically associated with long-haul aircraft backlogs. Antonoaldo Neves, Etihad CEO, said the agreement “demonstrates Etihad’s ability to move fast, secure scarce delivery positions, and stay ahead of global capacity constraints,” adding that the airline’s growth strategy aims to bring more visitors to Abu Dhabi while delivering enhanced premium experiences.
The combined Airbus and Boeing orders will give Etihad one of the most modern, efficient, and flexible long-haul fleets in the world. Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales, noted that the investment “delivers unmatched efficiency and flexibility to Etihad’s operations, supporting its future development.”
Next-generation experience
All new aircraft will feature Etihad’s next-generation First, Business, and enhanced Economy cabins, alongside Viasat high-speed internet.
This comes alongside ongoing retrofits and cabin upgrades, ensuring a consistent, world-class passenger experience across the airline’s expanding fleet.