ABU DHABI- Etihad Airways (EY) will introduce the Airbus A350-1000 on its Sydney (SYD) to Abu Dhabi (AUH) route starting 1 October 2025, offering advanced Business Class suites and improved passenger comfort.
The airline will fully transition its 10 weekly Sydney flights to the A350 by 31 January 2026, replacing the Boeing 787-9 on this key Australia–UAE route and expanding premium capacity significantly.
Etihad Deploys A350 to Sydney
Etihad Airways’ decision to deploy the Airbus A350-1000 on the Sydney–Abu Dhabi route marks a strategic enhancement of its long-haul product offering.
Initially operating select flights from 1 October 2025 alongside the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, the A350 will become the exclusive aircraft on all Sydney services from 31 January 2026.
This change boosts seat capacity by 10% and increases premium Business Class availability by more than 20%.
The A350’s introduction is part of a broader network optimization, complementing daily A350 flights to Melbourne (MEL), which will continue to be served by Etihad’s latest 787-9s equipped with Business Suites. This move aligns with the airline’s commitment to delivering consistent, high-quality service across its major Australian gateways.
Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways, emphasized the airline’s focus on premium travel and improved global connectivity.
The enhanced product aims to attract both outbound Australian passengers and inbound travelers connecting through Abu Dhabi to destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
A350-1000 Configuration
The Airbus A350-1000 offers Etihad’s latest cabin innovation, powered by fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines that deliver a 25% reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions.
The Business Class cabin features 44 private Business Studios with sliding doors, direct aisle access, and lie-flat beds measuring 79 inches. Each suite includes a wireless charging dock, Bluetooth headphone pairing, and an 18.5-inch touchscreen for in-flight entertainment.
Economy passengers benefit from 327 Smart Seats equipped with 13-inch touchscreens, innovative recline features, and Bluetooth connectivity.
All guests can enjoy complimentary Chat packages over Wi-Fi or upgrade to full internet access throughout the flight.
These aircraft enhancements are aimed at business travelers and premium leisure passengers seeking a modern, comfortable, and connected in-flight experience.
Updated Flight Schedules for Sydney Service
From 1 October 2025:
- EY450: Abu Dhabi (AUH) 10:25 → Sydney (SYD) 06:10 +1 (787-9) – Mon, Thu, Sat, Sun
- EY451: Sydney (SYD) 15:40 → Abu Dhabi (AUH) 00:05 +1 (787-9) – Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sun
- EY454: Abu Dhabi (AUH) 21:15 → Sydney (SYD) 16:55 +1 (A350) – Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun
- EY455: Sydney (SYD) 21:30 → Abu Dhabi (AUH) 06:00 +1 (A350) – Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat
From 31 January 2026 (full A350 deployment):
- EY450: Abu Dhabi (AUH) 09:40 → Sydney (SYD) 06:10 +1 – Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
- EY451: Sydney (SYD) 16:20 → Abu Dhabi (AUH) 23:55 – Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sun
- EY454: Abu Dhabi (AUH) 21:55 → Sydney (SYD) 18:35 +1 – Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun
- EY455: Sydney (SYD) 21:30 → Abu Dhabi (AUH) 05:00 +1 – Mon to Fri, Sun
Emirates A350 to Australia
The Etihad A350 deployment closely resembles Emirates’ plans to operate A350 flights to Australia.
Emirates Airline (EK) is strengthening its premium offering with the deployment of its long-range Airbus A350-900ULR to Adelaide (ADL), marking a major milestone in its Australian operations. The new aircraft will operate on routes EK440/441 starting December 1, 2025.
Simultaneously, Emirates (EK) is expanding its network of retrofitted Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s to eight new global destinations, including Bangkok (BKK), Hong Kong (HKG), and Frankfurt (FRA), from Dubai International Airport (DXB).
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