Etihad accelerates growth with expansion of widebody fleet 

Etihad Airways is expanding its widebody fleet with 32 new Airbus aircraft.

 

A mix of A350-1000s and A330-900s through both direct orders and lease commitments will see first deliveries begin as early as 2027.

 

The new commitment follows Abu Dhabi-based Etihad’s agreement earlier this year for 28 additional Boeing widebody aircraft, bringing  total new orders this year to 60 across Airbus and Boeing.

 

Etihad acted quickly to secure some of the last remaining early widebody delivery positions worldwide, ensuring new aircraft start arriving from 2027, “significantly ahead” of typical long-haul backlog timelines, according too the carrier. 

 

“This rapid execution reflects Etihad’s agility and expansion model, enabling the airline to unlock competitive advantage through early access to scarce long-haul capacity,” the airline added.

 

The agreement came the same week that Gulf rival Emirates unveiled a $38 billion order for 65 additional Boeing 777-9 aircraft. 

 

Etihad Airways chief executive Antonoaldo Neves 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.”

 

He added: “These agreements reflect our confidence in Abu Dhabi’s aviation future and our commitment to positioning the emirate as one of the world’s leading hubs. 

 

“Etihad’s incredible growth, underpinned by strategic fleet investments, continues to deliver sustainable value while bringing millions of visitors to Abu Dhabi each year. Our partnership with Airbus remains central to achieving our long-term vision.

 

“With 60 new widebody aircraft ordered this year across Airbus and Boeing, we are building one of the most modern, efficient and flexible long-haul fleets in the world.”