Etihad unveils A321LR luxury at ATM 2025 in Dubai (VIDEO)
First-class suites bring unparalleled luxury to the narrowbody fleet of UAE national airline
DUBAI: Etihad Airways has taken a bold step in redefining luxury air travel with the unveiling of its new Airbus A321LR at the 2025 Arabian Travel Market (ATM).
As the airline aims to expand its reach and fleet ahead of its 2030 vision, the A321LR represents a major leap forward in offering a truly premium experience on short and medium-haul flights. This latest aircraft is poised to offer passengers an unparalleled level of comfort and service previously reserved for long-haul routes.
The A321LR, an extended range version of Airbus’s A321 aircraft, is set to revolutionise regional air travel. Etihad's decision to configure this narrowbody aircraft with a luxurious three-class cabin highlights the airline’s commitment to bringing world-class service to even the shortest of flights. With its signature First Suite, lie-flat Business class seats, and spacious Economy, the A321LR offers a seamless, high-end travel experience on destinations as varied as Athens, Bangkok, and Zurich.
The First Suite experience
Etihad’s First Suite is undoubtedly the highlight of the A321LR’s cabin design. These ultra-premium suites, with only two available per aircraft, offer a level of privacy and comfort rarely found on narrowbody jets. The suites feature a lie-flat bed, a large 20” 4K screen, wireless charging, and Bluetooth pairing for a truly personalised experience.
In the First Suite, guests can indulge in a bespoke dining service, enjoy exclusive entertainment, and immerse themselves in the type of luxury typically reserved for wide-body, long-haul flights. This introduction marks the first time Etihad has brought its iconic First class experience to a narrowbody aircraft, further reinforcing the airline’s reputation for offering exceptional service.
As Etihad CEO Antonoaldo Neves explained, “We’re bringing First to more destinations, elevating it at every touchpoint. With the A321LR, we’re able to offer our guests the comfort, space, and personalised service that defines the Etihad brand.”
Business Class
Business class aboard the A321LR also boasts extraordinary features. The cabin includes 14 lie-flat seats with direct aisle access, arranged in a herringbone layout. Each seat transforms into a 78” fully flat bed, perfect for longer regional flights. The seats come equipped with a 17.3” 4K screen, Bluetooth headphones, and ample personal storage, ensuring both comfort and connectivity.
Etihad has successfully replicated the wide-body Business class experience on a narrowbody aircraft, providing passengers with the same high-quality service and amenities they would expect on Etihad’s long-haul aircraft.
Economy Class
Economy class on the A321LR doesn’t take a backseat to the First or Business cabins. Etihad has designed the 144 Economy seats with ergonomics in mind, offering generous recline and ample legroom. At 18.4” wide, these seats are among the widest in the industry, offering exceptional comfort for regional flights. Each seat comes with a 13.3” 4K touchscreen, USB charging, and access to the airline’s next-generation entertainment system.
Moreover, Etihad has equipped the aircraft with Viasat’s multi-orbit Wi-Fi system, ensuring seamless connectivity throughout the flight. With speeds of up to 1 Gbps, passengers can enjoy streaming, social media, and even live television, keeping them connected and entertained throughout their journey.
Expanding the fleet for 2030
The A321LR is part of Etihad’s bold expansion plan as the airline targets more than 170 aircraft by 2030. The first A321LR will enter service on 1 August 2025, with ten aircraft joining the fleet this year alone. By 2030, Etihad expects to increase its passenger numbers threefold, aiming to serve over 30 million passengers annually.
The aircraft will fly from Abu Dhabi to several destinations, including Algiers, Athens, Bangkok, and Zurich, connecting Etihad’s guests to both leisure and business hubs across the globe. The airline’s goal is to provide a seamless, luxury experience across all its routes, including on the A321LR network.
As part of its expansion strategy, Etihad plans to introduce 16 new destinations in 2025, with the A321LR forming a central part of its fleet renewal programme. This fleet expansion is expected to significantly contribute to the airline’s growth in the coming years, driving tourism and economic development in Abu Dhabi.
Luxury beyond the aircraft
Etihad’s commitment to luxury extends beyond the aircraft itself. The airline is rolling out several new services in line with the introduction of the A321LR, including the Etihad Concierge service for First class passengers. Available 24/7, the Etihad Concierge provides personalised travel planning and assistance for premium guests.
Guests flying in First class will also benefit from a seamless door-to-door experience, with chauffeur services in the UAE, dedicated check-in facilities, and access to the exclusive Etihad First Lounge. In Abu Dhabi, First passengers will soon enjoy additional services, including complimentary Home Check-In and Land & Leave services, offering a baggage-free airport experience.
Etihad at ATM 2025
The unveiling of the A321LR at ATM 2025 marks a significant moment for Etihad as it continues to position itself as a leader in luxury aviation. The airline’s commitment to innovation and excellence was on full display at the Dubai World Trade Centre, where travel professionals from across the globe gathered to showcase the latest in tourism and aviation.