Etihad Airways has announced a major expansion of its existing fleet, securing 32 additional Airbus aircraft as the airline accelerates its growth strategy and strengthens its fastest growing position in the world.
The latest commitment brings total 2025 to 60 wide-body Etihad orders across Airbus and Boeing.
The agreement includes the integration of A350-1000s, A350ff Freighters and A330-900S, secured by a combination of direct orders and lease commitments.
Etihad announces Airbus order
First deliveries begin in 2027, which represents one of the first wide windows available in today’s compressed air market.
The announcement follows Etihad’s deal earlier this year for an additional wide-body aircraft.
Together, the combined order allows airlines to build modern, flexible long-haul fleets – long-haul tugs, mid-range operations and cargo carriers.
Etihad said it is moving quickly to secure some of the last remaining human delivery positions around the world, to ensure the new planes arrive from 2027 – well ahead of the usual long backlog.
The airline said this agility supports its expansion model and gives it the opportunity to achieve early access to long-term capacity reductions.
Under the combined Airbus agreement:
- The addition of the A350-1000 will strengthen the Etihad Haul network
- A350f Freighters expand Etihad’s cargo presence
- The A330-900S will support mid-range and regional expansion during manpower deployment
Expansion of Ships
With this new order, Etihad will operate the entire Airbus family, including the A380, A350 (Passenger Will Variants) and the A330NEO.
Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways, said: “Acquiring a wide range of 32 – The first deliveries in 2027 – This shows to ensure that we can continue our experience of growth, and continue the high experience of Abu Dhabi.
“These agreements demonstrate our confidence in Abu Dhabi’s Aviation future and our commitment to growing the Emirate as one of the world’s leading destinations.
“Our partnership with Airbus remains key to achieving our long-term vision.
“With 60 new wide-body aircraft ordered this year across Airbus and Boeing, we are building one of today’s oldest, most efficient and most flexible aircraft in the world.”
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Business Commercial Sales, “”Etihad Airways’ investment in our airline and the future of UIATIng in the UAE and beyond.
“The combination of the A350 and A330neo family will deliver unparalleled efficiency and flexibility to Etihad’s operations, supporting its future development.”
Etihad continues to improve its premium onboard experience, with all new flights – including those announced today – set to feature the Airline’s Orcen General-Generation cabins, for business and Internet.
This upgrade is part of a comprehensive retrofit and cabin modernization program designed to deliver a consistent, world-class experience across the rapidly expanding fleet.
