Etihad Airways launches A321LR in India with inaugural flight to Kolkata
High-speed Wi-Fi and 4K touchscreens in every cabin class
ABU DHABI – Etihad Airways has officially launched its latest Airbus A321LR on the Abu Dhabi–Kolkata route, marking a significant upgrade to passenger experience on the popular India service.
The sold-out inaugural flight, EY222, landed at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Airport at 8.35pm on 24 September, showcasing the airline’s next-generation cabin design.
All eight return flights each week between Abu Dhabi and Kolkata will now be operated by the new aircraft, making Kolkata the first Indian destination to receive Etihad’s A321LR service.
Expanding India network
The introduction of the A321LR underscores Etihad’s growing commitment to India, where it already operates 183 flights per week across 11 cities. The network connects travellers between India and the Middle East, with onward options to Europe, Africa and North America.
Kolkata plays a central role in this strategy. Known as the cultural capital of India, the city sees more than 135,000 passengers travel annually with Etihad between Abu Dhabi and West Bengal. The route caters not only to leisure travellers but also to a growing number of corporate passengers, overseas students and those visiting friends and family.
Economic expansion in Kolkata is also driving demand. Rising investment in IT and financial services has strengthened business travel, contributing further to the city’s air connectivity.
Aircraft features
The A321LR delivers Etihad’s premium standards on short and medium-haul services, with upgraded interiors across all three cabin classes. Travellers on the Kolkata route now have access to two enclosed First Suites with sliding doors, 14 fully lie-flat Business seats in a 1-1 configuration, and 144 ergonomically designed Economy seats.
Each cabin features 4K entertainment screens, Bluetooth connectivity and wireless charging. High-speed Wi-Fi is available for streaming and gaming, while larger overhead bins provide added convenience.
The aircraft is the first of 30 A321LRs ordered by Etihad, with two already delivered since July this year.
First Class experience
Etihad’s First Suites feature privacy doors, companion dining options and fully-flat beds. Guests enjoy a 20-inch 4K screen, Bluetooth pairing and wireless charging. Premium dining, fine amenities and a dedicated First ground experience – including chauffeur service, concierge and meet-and-assist – enhance the journey further.
Business Class upgrade
Business passengers will find 14 lie-flat seats designed with direct aisle access and wide window views. The cabin is styled with Armani/Casa furnishings and premium tableware. Seats include a 17.3-inch 4K touchscreen, wireless charging, storage options and curated amenity kits.
Economy with extras
Economy offers 144 seats with enhanced legroom, 13.3-inch 4K touchscreens and USB charging ports. Bluetooth-enabled entertainment allows passengers to connect their own headphones, while E-Box provides a wide catalogue of films, series and games in multiple languages.
With the A321LR, Etihad is redefining the flying experience on India routes, blending comfort, technology and design with the airline’s award-winning service.