Etihad Airways has launched its next-generation Airbus A321LR on the Abu Dhabi–Kolkata route, transforming the travel experience with a wide-body cabin feel on a narrow-body aircraft. This strategic move marks Kolkata as the first Indian city to receive the carrier’s latest premium product, strengthening Etihad’s commitment to the Indian aviation market.
Etihad Airways introduces A321LR to Kolkata: A first for India
Effective 26 September 2025, all Etihad Airways flights operating between Zayed International Airport (AUH), Abu Dhabi, and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU), Kolkata will be served by the airline’s newly introduced Airbus A321LR. This marks a significant product upgrade for the route and positions Kolkata as the first Indian destination to receive Etihad’s premium narrow-body aircraft.The move was marked by the sold-out inaugural flight EY222, which landed in Kolkata at 8:35 PM on 24 September, two days ahead of the full-scale transition.The Airbus A321LR is part of Etihad’s broader fleet renewal plan. In July, the airline received the first of 30 A321LR aircraft, followed by a second delivery in August. The introduction of the A321LR is part of Etihad’s effort to provide wide-body level comfort and service on medium-haul routes.
Etihad Airways elevates the travel experience with premium cabins
The A321LR is configured to deliver Etihad’s signature luxury in a single-aisle aircraft, offering an upgraded experience in First, Business, and Economy classes:First class: Suites with unmatched privacy
- 2 private First Suites in a 1-1 configuration
- Sliding doors, providing full enclosure
- Fully-flat beds with luxurious linens
- 20-inch 4K touchscreen, wireless charging, Bluetooth connectivity
- Personal space for dining, working, and relaxing
- Guests enjoy Etihad’s exclusive First dining service
- Ground experience includes chauffeured transfers, concierge service, and VIP meet & assist
Business class: Comfort meets functionality
- 14 fully lie-flat seats, 1-1 herringbone layout
- Each seat offers direct aisle access and a window view
- Armani/Casa designed soft furnishings and tableware
- 17.3-inch 4K touchscreen, wireless charging, Bluetooth connectivity
- Ample personal storage and space
Economy class: Technology and comfort combined
- 144 ergonomically designed seats
- 13.3-inch 4K touchscreen for each seat
- USB ports, Bluetooth headphone pairing
- Extensive in-flight entertainment via E-Box, featuring movies, shows, and games in multiple languages
- High-speed Wi-Fi across all cabins, suitable for streaming and gaming
- Enlarged overhead bins for added convenience
The A321LR delivers the experience of a wide-body aircraft in a narrow-body format, with superior design, efficiency, and the comfort that medium-haul flyers now expect.
Etihad Airways strengthens Indian market focus
Etihad’s investment in the Kolkata route reflects the growing strategic importance of India within its global network. The airline currently operates 183 weekly flights across 11 Indian cities, offering extensive connectivity between India, the Middle East, and onward to Europe, Africa, and North America.Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is a key gateway city in eastern India, recognised globally as the cultural capital of India. Etihad Airways transports more than 135,000 passengers annually between Kolkata and Abu Dhabi. This number is expected to grow as the upgraded service attracts:
- Corporate travellers: Fuelled by growth in IT and financial services in the region
- Students and VFR (visiting friends and relatives) traffic
- Inbound tourism: Encouraged by enhanced comfort and connectivity
- International connections: Through seamless transfers at Abu Dhabi hub
Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways, noted:“India is a key market for Etihad, and we’re incredibly proud to welcome our newest aircraft, the A321LR, on its inaugural flight to India. Whether choosing our First Suites, Business Class, or next-gen Economy, our guests will enjoy a superior flying experience in Etihad’s signature style.”
Etihad Airways Airbus A321LR: Redefining medium haul travel
The A321LR is central to Etihad’s plan to provide a world-class travel experience while enhancing operational efficiency on regional routes. The new aircraft is purpose-built to meet evolving passenger expectations, with features such as:
- Wide-body comfort in a narrow-body shell
- Premium cabins with privacy, luxury finishes, and high-end technology
- Consistent onboard experience across the network
- Fuel efficiency and environmental performance, supporting Etihad’s sustainability goals
With Kolkata as the launch point for the A321LR’s Indian debut, Etihad Airways reaffirms its long-term commitment to India, combining innovation with customer-centric service across every class of travel.