BAHRAIN- Etihad Airways (EY) plans to unveil a significant network expansion with its existing fleet and upcoming Airbus A321LR in the coming months, following a period of extensive restructuring.
The airline will reveal 11 new destinations on November 25, with an additional 20 cities to be announced in January or February 2025.
Etihad Expansion with A321LR
Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer Arik De disclosed these plans at Routes World in Bahrain, highlighting Etihad’s rapid growth trajectory. The carrier’s fleet has expanded from 65 aircraft post-pandemic to 96 this year, representing a 40% annual growth rate.
De projects Etihad will surpass its 2017 size next year, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s recovery and expansion strategy. This growth comes after nearly three years of operational revamping, initiated by a major management change.
A key development in Etihad’s expansion is the forthcoming arrival of its first Airbus A321LR in 2025. The airline will announce the aircraft’s configuration on February 25, 2025, featuring lie-flat beds with all-aisle access, enhancing passenger comfort on long-haul narrowbody routes.
The A321LR will enable Etihad to access new markets unsuitable for its larger Boeing 787, 777, and Airbus A350 aircraft. This addition will also facilitate increased frequency on existing European routes, with plans to introduce a third daily flight to several cities.
Targeting Asia and Europe
Etihad Airways plans to target secondary cities in Europe and Asia as part of its network expansion.
Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer Arik De emphasized the airline’s unique position in the region, offering an integrated fleet with consistent product quality across widebody and A321LR aircraft.
The carrier has initiated a $700 million cabin refresh program for its Boeing 787s and Airbus A380s. De projects the A380s will remain in service until at least 2030, with seven currently operating on routes to London Heathrow, New York JFK, and Paris Charles de Gaulle.
Etihad will introduce A380 service to Singapore from February 2025, along with an undisclosed destination new to A380 operations. The airline also plans to add at least one more U.S. destination and explore further expansion in Russia.
De identified Africa as a significant gap in Etihad’s current network, indicating potential future growth in this market. However, he cautioned against overextension, stating, “We are becoming omni-directional, but I think it’s foolish to go and chase too many things.”
20 Years in India
Etihad recently completed 20 years of operations in India and Abu Dhabi-based carrier currently operates nearly 180 weekly departures to 11 Indian cities.
Over the past year, Etihad has substantially increased its flight frequencies to India. The airline achieved a notable first by launching a Hindi language booking site, enhancing accessibility for Indian customers.
Etihad has also strengthened its presence in Indian sports. The airline recently formed a partnership with Chennai Super Kings Cricket Limited, tapping into India’s cricket fervor. Additionally, Etihad has announced a new commitment to Mumbai City FC, further expanding its footprint in Indian sports sponsorships.
De hinted at forthcoming announcements, suggesting Etihad’s continued investment and expansion in the Indian market. His statement, “the best is yet to come,” indicates the airline’s optimistic outlook and plans for future growth in India.
Etihad Strong Growth in August
Etihad transported 1.7 million passengers in August 2024 and achieved an 89% average passenger load factor, indicating robust performance during the peak summer season.
CEO Antonoaldo Neves reported a substantial increase in passenger numbers compared to the previous year. Year-to-date, Etihad has served 12.0 million passengers, marking a 36% increase from the prior year. The rolling 12-month passenger count reached over 17 million, nearly 70% higher than the full year 2022 figures.
Etihad maintained its 89% load factor despite capacity expansion, demonstrating growing traveler preference for the airline. Further, the carrier’s operating fleet grew to 95 aircraft, up from 79 in the previous year, with 16 new aircraft added in the past twelve months.
In August, Etihad introduced the final two of six A321neos expected for 2024. The airline now serves 10 additional passenger destinations compared to the same period last year. This enhances its network and supporting Abu Dhabi’s position as a global aviation hub and tourist destination.
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