Etihad Airways has received its first Airbus A321LR, the first narrowbody aircraft to offer private First Class suites. The cabin includes fully flat beds, lie-flat Business seats, and enhanced Economy, all with 4K screens and high-speed Wi-Fi. The A321LR marks a major upgrade for medium-haul comfort starting August 2025.
Etihad Airways has taken a bold step in redefining luxury air travel by introducing its first Airbus A321LR aircraft—featuring private First Class suites on a single-aisle jet for the very first time. This new addition to the fleet is a milestone in the airline’s commitment to innovation and elevated passenger comfort.
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Designed for medium-haul routes, the Airbus A321LR combines extended range with widebody-style luxury. This aircraft is the first of 30 jets expected to modernize Etihad’s regional and mid-range fleet. It will begin service from August 2025, initially flying routes like Abu Dhabi to Phuket, and later expanding to more destinations across Europe, Asia, and Africa.
For the first time on a narrowbody aircraft, Etihad has introduced two private First Class suites in a 1-1 configuration. Each suite includes:
Fully enclosed sliding doors for privacy
Lie-flat bed configuration
20-inch 4K entertainment screen
Wireless charging and Bluetooth connectivity
A personal "buddy" seat for in-flight conversations or meetings
These suites offer passengers unmatched comfort and personal space, setting a new benchmark in short- and medium-haul luxury.
Behind the First Class cabin is a premium Business Class section featuring 14 lie-flat seats in a reverse herringbone layout. These seats offer:
Full recline to 78-inch flatbeds
Direct aisle access for every seat
Ample storage, elegant finishes, and privacy-focused design
17.3-inch 4K entertainment screens with wireless audio and USB charging
This configuration mirrors the comfort typically found on long-haul widebody aircraft.
The Economy Class section features 144 seats with thoughtful amenities that enhance comfort and entertainment. Passengers will enjoy:
18.4-inch wide seats with generous legroom and 5-inch recline
13.3-inch 4K individual touchscreens
USB-A and USB-C charging ports
Gate-to-gate high-speed Wi-Fi access
Spacious overhead storage bins
This setup ensures that all passengers, regardless of class, benefit from a modern, comfortable experience.
The A321LR is part of Etihad’s long-term sustainability and fleet expansion strategy. The new aircraft allows the airline to operate more fuel-efficient flights while offering premium comfort. Etihad aims to receive 30 such jets, with multiple deliveries scheduled through the end of 2025.
This move also supports Etihad’s plan to grow its annual passenger capacity to 38 million by 2030 while meeting increasing demand for luxury and efficiency on medium-haul routes.
Etihad’s introduction of private First Class suites on a single-aisle aircraft represents a pioneering shift in commercial aviation. By delivering long-haul comfort on medium-haul routes, the airline has made luxury more accessible without compromising on efficiency.
This innovation demonstrates how advanced design, premium service, and strategic growth can come together to create a truly exceptional flying experience. Etihad’s A321LR is not just another aircraft—it’s a symbol of the airline’s commitment to leading the future of air travel.
