Etihad Airways has introduced first-class suites as part of the interior enhancement of its long-range Airbus A321LR twin-jets and is set to enter the fleet later this year.
One of the 10 arriving this year – the first aircraft will enter service on August 1st.
It consists of two privately enclosed first class suites, surrounded by sliding doors. This includes a Lee Flatbed, a 20-inch (51cm) in-flight entertainment screen, and a living room for companions.
“This is the first time Etihad has brought a fully widebody (first class) experience to narrow aircraft and redefine luxury on short and medium-distance routes,” says Career.
The interior features 14 Lee Flat Business Class seats in herringbone layout and 144 upgraded economy seats. All passengers have access to the ViaSat connection.
The CEO of Antonoaldo Neves says the arrival of the A321LR marks an “transforming moment” for the airline. It plans to open 16 new destinations this year as part of its Journey 2030 business plan, which includes double the fleet size.
Etihad says the A321LR will operate on short and medium-range routes, including European services to Paris, Copenhagen, Zurich and Milan, with flights to Indian destinations such as Kolkata and Chennai.
The twin jet will also be deployed in cities in the Middle East and North Africa. These include locations in the Asia-Pacific region, such as Algiers, Tunis, Riyadh, Bangkok and Phnom Penh.
