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Airlines and Aviation

Qantas Introduces Airbus A321XLR on Sydney-Brisbane Route, Elevating Travel on Australia’s Busiest Domestic Flyway

Qantas has launched its newest narrowbody aircraft, the Airbus A321XLR, on Australia’s second busiest route between Sydney and Brisbane, marking a significant upgrade in cabin comfort, efficiency, and sustainability. Following its debut earlier this year on Sydney-Melbourne and Sydney-Perth flights, Queenslanders are now the latest to experience the roomier cabin featuring higher ceilings, wider seats, larger windows, and enhanced overhead storage with about 60% more space compared to the older Boeing 737s being replaced. The Airbus A321XLR also offers free Wi-Fi, a quieter ride, and reduced fuel consumption per seat, contributing to Qantas’ progress toward its sustainability goals. The aircraft seats 197 passengers, including an increased Business Class section with 20 lie-flat seats planned on later aircraft for longer and international routes. This model can fly up to 8,700 km, enabling new direct domestic and regional international connections. Qantas Domestic CEO Markus Svensson highlighted the aircraft’s significance for Queensland, home to Qantas’ origins and an important part of its network. Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff praised the quieter operation as beneficial for surrounding communities and noted how the arrival aligns with Brisbane Airport’s ongoing terminal enhancements, including upgraded screening, expanded retail, and improved passenger facilities. Currently, Qantas operates two A321XLRs with a third aircraft named Seven Peaks Walk expected imminently, and a total of 48 on order as part of the airline’s largest-ever fleet renewal program. This fresh generation of aircraft promises to deliver a superior travel experience for passengers while supporting environmental commitments. For travellers flying the Sydney-Brisbane corridor, spotting the new A321XLR at the gate means enjoying a quieter, more spacious, and tech-forward journey — a preview of Australia’s modern domestic air travel future.

Airlines and Aviation

IndiGo to Fly India’s First A321XLR to Athens from Delhi and Mumbai

Panoramic view of the old city at sunset, evening time night, cycladic islands, ios greece IndiGo announced its thrice weekly, direct flights to Athens, each from Mumbai and Delhi, effective 23 and 24 January 2026 respectively. The inaugural flight on India’s first A321XLR will depart from Mumbai on 23 January 2026 and arrive in Athens on the same day. Similarly for Greece, IndiGo’s flight connecting the two capital cities, Athens and Delhi, on 24 January 2026 will mark their first A321XLR operation. With this, IndiGo forays into long-range narrow body operations and also becomes the only Indian carrier to offer direct flights between India and Greece. Powered by India’s first Airbus A321XLR, these routes mark a bold step in IndiGo’s international strategy, not just highlighting its evolution as a global airline, but also its role in connecting India to key destinations across the world. Athens is emerging as a much sought-after European destination, and IndiGo, by introducing direct connectivity from Mumbai and Delhi, is poised to unlock this potential by being the only Indian carrier catering to this growing demand. Pieter Elbers, Chief Executive Officer, IndiGo, said: “We are excited to announce our flights to Athens from Mumbai and Delhi on India’s first Airbus A321XLR. This momentous development marks the beginning of a new era for IndiGo’s long-range narrow body operations, making us the only Indian carrier offering direct connectivity between India and Greece. We are confident that these new routes will play a vital role in strengthening cultural and economic ties between the two ancient civilisations. As outbound travel from India continues to expand, Athens is emerging as a key European destination for leisure, MICE, and wedding tourism. This direct connection will also unlock substantial potential for more bilateral engagements. With the induction of the A321XLR aircraft into our fleet, IndiGo will increasingly be able to operate deeper into Europe while maintaining the cost efficiency and operational reliability that have long defined our service.”  The A321XLR Experience The Airbus A321XLR, a next-generation narrow-body aircraft with a range of up to 8,700 kms, will enable IndiGo to operate non-stop flights from India to Southern Europe while maintaining cost efficiency. This aircraft will feature 12 IndiGoStretch seats in a 2X2 configuration with a generous 44-inch seat pitch and a 6-inch recline. The aircraft also features 183 Economy Class seats offering a 31-inch seat pitch and 5-inch recline for a comfortable travel experience. With an objective to keep customers engaged on the long journey, IndiGo has partnered with Bluebox to offer next-generation digital inflight experience on its A321XLRs. It enables customers to enjoy wide range of entertainment on their personal devices—including popular Indian and Hollywood films, TV shows, games, anime, and animated series. The experience is further enhanced with in-seat power supply and device holders. Meanwhile, complimentary hot meals and beverages inspired by local and global flavours will be served to all customers on this route. The default meals will be vegetarian, although an option to pre-book non-vegetarian meals will be available at the time of booking. Additionally, alcoholic beverages can be purchased by customers on-board the Economy cabin and will be offered with compliments to IndiGoStretch customers.   Sector Flight No. Days of Operation Departure Arrival Schedule of Flights between Mumbai and Athens, effective 23 January 2026 Mumbai-Athens 6E 1903 Thrice Weekly 09:50 14:15 Athens-Mumbai 6E 1904 Thrice Weekly 15:25 02:00 (+1) Schedule of Flights between Delhi and Athens, effective 24 January 2026 Delhi-Athens 6E 1901 Thrice Weekly 09:10 14:25 Athens-Delhi 6E 1902 Thrice Weekly 16:00 03:10 (+1) *All timings are in local time zones; exact timings may differ on the respective days of operation **Subject to regulatory approvals *** (+1) indicates next day arrival   Bookings are now open on IndiGo website (www.goIndiGo.in), the IndiGo mobile app, and across authorized travel partners.    

Airlines and Aviation

Etihad Airways’ New A321LR Makes India Debut on Inaugural Flight to Kolkata

Etihad Airways has launched its game-changing new A321LR aircraft on all flights to and from Kolkata, bringing a refined luxury experience to the popular Indian route. The sold-out inaugural flight, EY222, touched down at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Airport (CCU), Kolkata, India at 8.35pm on 24 September. All of Etihad’s eight return flights per week between Abu Dhabi and Kolkata will now be operated by the A321LR. The upgraded A321LR service reinforces Etihad’s commitment to the Indian market where it operates 183 flights per week to 11 destinations across India. The extensive network connects guests seamlessly between India and the Middle East, and conveniently onwards to Europe, Africa and North America. Kolkata, the capital and largest city of the West Bengal state, is an important gateway to India, with Etihad carrying more than 135k passengers annually between the city and Abu Dhabi. Kolkata holds the honour of being recognised as the cultural capital of India, welcoming visitors from around the world to explore the city’s rich heritage and artistic energy. As well as an increase in visitors travelling to India, Etihad is also catering to rising demand from corporate travellers as well as overseas students and those visiting friends and family. The state is also benefitting from an increase in investment in the IT and financial services sectors, which are also driving demand for corporate travel. Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, Etihad Airways, said: “India is an important market for Etihad and we’re incredibly proud to be in Kolkata to welcome our newest aircraft, the A321LR, on its inaugural flight to India. Whether choosing our luxurious First Suites, lie-flat Business seats with direct aisle access and a window-view, or our next-generation Economy cabin, our guests will enjoy a superior flying experience in Etihad’s signature style.” The A321LR is designed to deliver Etihad’s premium cabin standards and award-winning flying experience to short and medium-haul sectors. The aircraft is configured to provide elevated comfort, refined design and high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity across all cabins. On the A321LR, guests flying between Abu Dhabi and Kolkata will experience the latest cabin innovations, with two enclosed First Suites with sliding doors for privacy; 14 lie-flat Business seats each with direct-aisle access and window facing; and 144 ergonomically designed Economy seats with 4K touchscreens. In July, Etihad took delivery of the first of 30 A321LR aircraft scheduled to join its expanding fleet, with a second A321LR joining the fleet in August. First Etihad’s A321LR introduces two private First Suites on the Kolkata route, with sliding doors for privacy and an elegant space to dine, work and relax. The First seats, with space for a companion, transform effortlessly to fully-flat beds complete with luxurious textiles. Seats feature a 20-inch 4K screen, wireless charging and Bluetooth connectivity, and guests will enjoy Etihad’s renowned First culinary experience. First guests will also benefit from a First ground experience, with chauffeurs, the Etihad Concierge and meet and assist services making travel as effortless as possible. Business Fourteen fully-lie-flat seats in a 1-1 herringbone configuration, each offer direct aisle access and dreamy window views. Armani/Casa designed soft-furnishings and tableware are complemented by luxury amenities. Business features an enhanced 17.3-inch 4K touchscreen, wireless charging and Bluetooth connectivity, with generous personal space and storage options. Economy Etihad’s Economy offers 144 ergonomically designed seats offering generous legroom. Each seat is equipped with a 13.3-inch 4K touchscreen, USB charging and Bluetooth headphone pairing. Extensive entertainment from E-Box includes a library of premium films, series and games in multiple languages from Hollywood to Bollywood and more. All cabins feature high-speed Wi-Fi capable of streaming movies and gaming, being rolled out progressively on Asian routes. Enlarged overhead storage enhances comfort and convenience throughout the journey. With the introduction of the A321LR, Etihad continues to elevate the standards of air travel, combining design and innovation with the airline’s commitment to unrivalled Flight schedule between Abu Dhabi and Kolkata from 24 September – all times local light Departure City Departure Time Arrival City Arrival Time Frequency Aircraft Type EY 220 Abu Dhabi 20:30 Kolkata 03:00+1 Monday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday A321LR EY 221 Kolkata 04:00 Abu Dhabi 07:25 Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday A321LR EY 222 Abu Dhabi 14:00 Kolkata 20:35 Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday A321LR EY 223 Kolkata 21:30 Abu Dhabi 00:55+1 Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday A321LR    

Airlines and Aviation

Etihad Airways offers Luxury With the First A321LR Flight To Phuket

Etihad Airways has launched the first commercial flight of its all-new A321LR, defining luxury travel on a narrowbody aircraft. Flight EY414 departed Zayed International Airport for Phuket today, marking the introduction of an aircraft designed to deliver Etihad’s premium cabin standards on short and medium-haul sectors. Today’s inaugural flight introduces guests to Etihad’s latest cabin innovation, designed to deliver the same elevated service and attention to detail that defines its award-winning widebody experience, now available on a next-generation single-aisle aircraft. Last week Etihad took delivery of the first of 30 A321LR aircraft scheduled to join its fleet, each configured to provide elevated comfort, refined design and high-speed connectivity across all cabins. Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways, said: “The A321LR symbolises our ambition to deliver extraordinary experiences on every route we serve. It allows us to bring the sophistication of our widebody cabins, including our renowned First experience, to more destinations, and to more travellers, than ever before.” Widebody Luxury on a Single-Aisle Aircraft Etihad’s A321LR introduces a new benchmark for narrowbody travel, with a premium cabin layout that transforms expectations across all classes: First Suites Two fully enclosed private suites with sliding doors, flat beds, and unique styling Elegant design with space for a guest to dine or relax, either in the privacy of their suite alone, or with companion Features include a 20-inch 4K screen, wireless charging and Bluetooth pairing Full Etihad First service onboard and on the ground Business Fourteen seats in a 1-1 herringbone configuration, each with direct aisle access and window views Enhanced with 17.3-inch 4K displays, wireless charging and Bluetooth connectivity Generous personal space and intuitive storage Economy 144 ergonomically designed seats offering generous legroom Equipped with 13.3-inch 4K touchscreens, USB charging and Bluetooth headphone pairing Entertainment includes a library of premium films, series and games All cabins feature high-speed Wi-Fi capable of video conferencing, streaming movies and gaming, being rolled out progressively on Asian routes, and enlarged overhead bins to enhance comfort and convenience throughout the journey. With the introduction of the A321LR, Etihad continues to elevate the standards of air travel, combining design innovation with the airline’s commitment to unrivalled service.  

Airlines and Aviation

Etihad Airways takes delivery of its first Airbus A321LR aircraft

Etihad Airways has taken delivery of its first Airbus A321LR (long range) following ceremony at the Airbus Finkenwerder site, marking a transformational milestone in the airline's fleet expansion strategy. The aircraft brings Etihad's signature widebody experience to short and medium-haul routes, with premium cabins typically found only on long-haul flights. This is the first of 30 A321LR aircraft scheduled to join Etihad's fleet. Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: "Today marks an extraordinary moment for Etihad as we welcome an aircraft that changes everything we thought possible on a single-aisle plane. The A321LR enables us to serve more destinations with the same premium experience our guests expect across all cabins, perfectly embodying our commitment to delivering luxury at every altitude." Redefining Narrowbody Travel The A321LR features a three-cabin configuration, including Etihad's first-ever narrowbody First Suites -  private, enclosed spaces with sliding doors, fully-flat beds, and bespoke design touches normally reserved for long-haul widebody operations. Each window-facing First Suite features a large 20-inch 4K screen, Bluetooth pairing, wireless charging, and additional space for a companion to sit. The aircraft's 14-seat Business cabin features widebody-style seats in a 1-1 herringbone layout, ensuring every passenger has direct aisle access and window views. Each Business seat includes a 17.3-inch 4K screen, Bluetooth headphone pairing and wireless charging. In Economy, 144 thoughtfully designed seats offer generous space and comfort, providing an elevated experience for single-aisle travel. Passengers enjoy 13.3-inch 4K touchscreen displays, USB charging, and Bluetooth connectivity. These seatback screens bring premium content back to narrowbody travel with over a thousand hours of movies, shows and games. In addition, the cabin features enlarged overhead bins providing significantly more luggage space than traditional narrowbody aircraft. Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus Executive Vice President Sales of the Commercial Aircraft Business, commented: “The delivery of Etihad’s first Airbus A321LR is a powerful symbol of innovation and partnership, strengthening the long-standing relationship between Airbus and the UAE. This aircraft sets a new standard for comfort in the single-aisle category and paves the way for increased connectivity as Etihad expands its operations from its Abu Dhabi hub.” Staying Connected Above the Clouds A standout feature of Etihad's A321LR is its high-speed Wi-Fi powered by Viasat's advanced technology delivering speeds of up to 100’s of Mbps. Passengers can enjoy seamless streaming, gaming and browsing throughout their journey, bringing ground-level connectivity to the skies. This gate-to-gate connectivity, where permitted, ensures guests remain productive and entertained whether flying for business or leisure. Wi-Fi service on Asian routes is being progressively rolled out and will be available from September 2025. Expanding Horizons The A321LR supports Etihad's extraordinary expansion momentum, with the airline having launched or announced 27 new routes in a single year as part of its ambitious growth strategy. The aircraft will enter commercial service on 1 August 2025, initially operating between Abu Dhabi and Phuket before serving destinations including Algiers, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Copenhagen, Düsseldorf, Kolkata, Krabi, Krakow, Medan, Milan, Paris, Phnom Penh, Phuket, Tunis and Zurich. The A321LR delivery supports Etihad's Journey 2030 vision, reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position as a leading global aviation hub. Additional nine A321LR aircraft will be delivered throughout 2025, supporting Etihad's ambitious growth plans as the airline works towards carrying 38 million passengers annually by 2030.

Airlines and Aviation

Etihad to upgrade flights to Kolkata to brand new A321LR 

Etihad Airways is set to enhance its Kolkata service with the introduction of the next-generation Airbus A321LR, reinforcing its commitment to the Indian market. Starting 26 September 2025, all Etihad flights between Zayed International Airport, Abu Dhabi (AUH) and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata (CCU) will be operated by the state-of-the-art A321LR, offering guests an upgraded travel experience across all cabin classes. The aircraft is equipped with luxury First Suites, fully lie-flat Business seats, and a cutting-edge Economy class featuring ultra-modern 4K touchscreens and high-speed Wi-Fi, ensuring seamless connectivity throughout the journey. The Airbus A321LR is designed to bring wide-body comfort to a single-aisle aircraft, offering enhanced space, privacy, and premium amenities. The First Suites provide an exclusive experience with forward-facing fully-flat beds in a 1-1 configuration, while Business Class features 14 lie-flat seats, ensuring maximum comfort on medium-haul routes. Economy Class passengers will enjoy next-generation seating, complete with advanced in-flight entertainment and connectivity, making every journey more enjoyable. Arik De, Etihad’s Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, said: "India is a key market for Etihad, and we are delighted to elevate our Kolkata service with our latest A321LR aircraft. With this upgrade, our guests can now enjoy a superior travel experience, whether in our luxurious First Suites, Business Class lie-flat seats, or next-generation Economy cabin. This investment underlines our ongoing commitment to providing world-class service and greater connectivity across the Indian subcontinent." The new A321LR aircraft brings enhanced efficiency and comfort, making Etihad the premier choice for travellers between Abu Dhabi and Kolkata. The airline continues to strengthen its footprint in India, offering passengers greater access to Etihad’s growing global network. Flight schedule between Abu Dhabi and Kolkata from 26 September – all times local   Flight Departure City Departure Time Arrival City Arrival Time Frequency Aircraft Type EY 0220 Abu Dhabi 20:30 Kolkata 03:00+1 Monday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday A321LR EY 0221 Kolkata 04:00 Abu Dhabi 07:25 Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday A321LR EY 0222 Abu Dhabi 14:00 Kolkata 20:35 Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday A321LR EY 0223 Kolkata 21:30 Abu Dhabi 01:00+1 Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday A321LR      

Agreements / Understandings / Contract Signings

AirAsia to change the game yet again with purchase order for 50 Airbus A321XLRs

AirAsia Berhad signed a landmark agreement with Airbus for the purchase of 50 A321XLRs on Saturday, 5th July. The signing in Paris between Capital A chief executive Tony Fernandes and his counterpart at Airbus Commercial Aircraft Christian Scherer was witnessed by Malaysian Prime Minister of Malaysia Anwar Ibrahim. The purchase’s total value is at US$12.25 billion and also includes rights for 20 A321XLRs, and the aircraft are scheduled for delivery between 2028 and 2032. With this agreement, the airline takes a major step towards becoming the world’s first low-cost narrow-body network carrier, anchored by its multi-hub strategy.  Taking Asian aviation to the next level. Fernandes pointed out that AirAsia pioneered low-cost travel and Asia and is now set to take the sector to the next level. He said: “AirAsia is on a transformative journey to become the world’s first low-cost network carrier. This is about exponential growth, connecting geographies beyond Asean, and making flying even more democratic. We gave people in ASEAN the opportunity to explore Asia; now, we want the world to see ASEAN, and ASEAN to see the world. The A321XLR and A321LR are the game-changers enabling this vision, and we are proud to lead the charge in making our world smaller. We can’t wait to paint the skies even wider in red.” For his part, Scherer expressed pleasure over the confirmation of the agreement, as well as over becoming part of the next phase of AirAsia’s development. Scherer said: “Having resumed its growth trajectory, which we salute and support, AirAsia is creating solid fleet efficiencies, allowing global network expansion. The A321XLR unlocks new opportunities for AirAsia to launch non-stop flights linking primary and secondary cities all around the globe.” The next-generation A321XLRs will operate alongside AirAsia’s all-Airbus fleet of A320 Family and A330 aircraft, supporting its long-term strategy to deliver unmatched connectivity across Asia and beyond, whilst maintaining a low-cost model through improved route economics, enhanced aircraft utilisation and fleet efficiency.  AirAsia Group aims to carry 150 million guests annually by 2030, reaching a cumulative total of 1.5 billion guests since inception. The new fleet plays a pivotal role in this transformation as AirAsia’s multi-aircraft strategy enables the airline to match capacity with demand, reduce fuel consumption, and support a sustainable, cost-effective growth model in a highly competitive global landscape.  The A321XLR also offers up to 20 percent lower fuel burn per seat than the Airbus A321neo aircraft, significantly improving emissions performance and operating efficiency.

Air

Air New Zealand to augment fleet with two new A321 aircraft

Air New Zealand is preparing for the imminent arrival of its two newest Airbus A321neo aircraft, with the first aircraft expected to touch down on Kiwi soil tomorrow. Each aircraft will complete a 19,342 kilometre journey to Auckland from the Airbus facility in Hamburg, with stopovers in Muscat, Kuala Lumpur, and Cairns. The A321neo is configured for flying to Australia and the Pacific islands, seats 214 passengers, and represents the latest innovation in narrowbody jet technology, offering improved efficiency and additional capacity to Air New Zealand’s fleet. This news comes in the wake of ANZ’s newly retrofitted 787-9 Dreamliners taking to the skies, and the recent announcement of a new jet service connecting Hamilton and Christchurch. These developments are all part of the airline’s ongoing investment in its network. A new craft takes to the skies The first A321neo arrival, ZK-NNH, is due to enter service in the coming weeks.  By the time the second aircraft flies in a couple of months from now, these two new additions will be contributing an additional 70,000 seats per year to the airline’s global network. ANZ’s chief commercial officer Jeremy O’Brien pointed out how the arrival of the new aircraft signals continued momentum for the airline. O’Brien said: “These new A321neo are a clear sign we’re investing for the future: boosting our international network and delivering more choice for customers. It’s about doing what we do best: connecting Kiwi to the world and bringing visitors to our shores. We’re eagerly anticipating getting these aircraft in the skies. We can’t wait to share more soon about where they will be flying. Watch this airspace.” An elegant new addition Plane spotters and aviation fans can expect a sleek new silhouette on the tarmac, and should keep their eyes on the skies for its arrival at 6.45pm local time tomorrow, 4th June.  The second aircraft is due to arrive in Aotearoa towards the end of this month. These A321neo join Air New Zealand’s growing narrowbody fleet, which means with these additions, there are nine internationally configured A321neo in the fleet. 

Airlines and Aviation

Etihad Airways to debut A321LR this August

Etihad Airways is setting a new standard for single-aisle flying with the debut of its all-new Airbus A321LR, delivering wide-body comfort on short and medium-haul routes. Etihad’s A321LR represents a leap forward in guest experience and innovation, bringing Etihad’s signature luxury and a true First class experience to narrowbody flying. “The A321LR is an amazing aircraft which proves our commitment to luxury, customer experience, and connectivity,” said Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways. “With our new First Suites, 14 lie-flat Business seats with direct-aisle access, and upgraded Economy, we've taken the luxury experience which we are famed for on our widebody fleet and adapted it to offer guests the same experience in a single-aisle aircraft – all while keeping them seamlessly connected with superfast, streaming Wi-Fi throughout the journey. “More broadly, the A321LR marks a transformational moment for Etihad as we accelerate toward our Journey 2030 vision: doubling our fleet size, tripling our passenger numbers, and opening 16 new destinations in 2025 alone.” An Extraordinary Experience in Every Cabin Etihad’s A321LR introduces an all-new First Suite - a private, enclosed space with a sliding door, lie-flat bed, elevated dining, and bespoke design touches. With only two exclusive First suites on board, guests will enjoy an intimate, ultra-premium experience normally reserved for long-haul widebodies. This marks the first time Etihad brings the full widebody First experience to a narrowbody aircraft, redefining luxury on short and medium-haul routes. The innovative and spacious First Suite offers additional space for a companion to sit as well as a large 20” 4K screen for entertainment, with Bluetooth pairing and wireless charging – ensuring comfort and connection at every touchpoint. The new Business cabin features widebody-style seats, all forward facing with direct aisle access (1-1) in a herringbone layout with 14 fully-flat 78” beds. Each seat includes a 17.3” 4K screen, Bluetooth headphone pairing, wireless charging, and ample personal storage, ensuring a seamless, connected journey. In Economy, 144 thoughtfully designed seats offer up to 5” recline, enhanced ergonomics, and generous space. At 18.4” wide, it’s one of the widest Economy seats in the industry, providing wide-body comfort to the narrow-body aircraft. Every guest enjoys a 13.3” 4K touchscreen, USB charging, and access to Etihad’s next-generation entertainment system. Etihad’s aircraft are equipped with Viasat’s advanced, multi-orbit ready system, which is capable of speeds of up to 1 Gbps, and available from gate-to-gate where permitted. All guests have access to streaming, social media, surfing and gaming onboard, in addition to live television throughout the cabin. Luxury Beyond the Cabin: The First Experience Redefined Etihad’s First Suite is only the beginning of a truly end-to-end premium journey. The airline is expanding its First class offering across more routes – including the A321LR network - and significantly investing in every detail of the travel experience with new services to be rolled out from August with the introduction of the A321LR. “As well as investing heavily to expand our First class offering, we’re taking the time to enhance every tiny detail of the experience and introducing a host of new premium services over the next couple of months – stay tuned,” said Neves. From the moment guests choose to book First, they will be supported by personalised service from the new Etihad Concierge, which will be available 24/7 for tailored travel planning. In the UAE and all First destinations, guests will enjoy a private chauffeur service to and from the airport, providing a seamless experience from door-to-door. First class guests will also be personally escorted through a dedicated Check In to the Etihad First Lounge and then for boarding. On arrival, guests will be accompanied from the aircraft door to their chauffeur, with porter services taking care of the luggage. In Abu Dhabi, First guests will also soon benefit from complimentary Home Check-In and Land & Leave services, offering a baggage-free airport experience. At Zayed International Airport, First guests will be chauffeured to the aircraft door in a private limousine if the flight does not board directly from the terminal. “First isn’t just a seat - it’s an experience that starts the moment you choose to fly with us,” added Neves. “We’re bringing First to more destinations and elevating it at every touchpoint, combining the elegance of champagne and caviar with the convenience of modern luxury." Expanding Horizons Etihad’s first A321LR enters service on 1 August 2025, with ten aircraft joining the fleet this year. The aircraft will fly from Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport to destinations including Algiers, Athens, Bangkok, Chennai, Chiang Mai, Copenhagen, Dusseldorf, Kolkata, Krabi, Medan, Milan, Paris, Phnom Penh, Phuket, Riyadh, Tunis, and Zurich. With the A321LR at the heart of its fleet expansion, Etihad is reinforcing its role as a key enabler of tourism and economic development in Abu Dhabi, while delivering world-class service at every altitude.    

Airlines and Aviation

Vietjet expands fleet with an Airbus A321neo ACF aircraft

Vietjet recently welcomed a brand-new Airbus A321neo ACF aircraft with registration number VN-A516.  The new aircraft landed at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City on Friday, 25th April, following its delivery flight from Hamburg, Germany.  Set to be deployed during Vietnam’s second-largest national holiday period this week, the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of Reunification Day combined with Labor Day, the new addition boosts Vietjet’s capacity to meet the surge in travel demand.  This is the third new aircraft Vietjet has added to its fleet since the start of 2025, and the airline plans to continue receiving new aircraft from Airbus and Boeing throughout the year, reinforcing its commitment to operating one of the most dynamic and efficient fleets in the region. A timely addition The latest addition to the Vietjet fleet could not have come at a better time as the airline also launched several new direct routes connecting Ho Chi Minh City with Nagoya and Fukuoka in Japan, offering passengers more travel options.  Singapore-based travellers, in particular, can conveniently fly from Singapore to Ho Chi Minh City for a quick getaway before continuing on to Japan.  These developments mark a significant milestone in Vietjet’s 2025 expansion, which also includes new services to Singapore, India, and China, all aimed at improving travel convenience and fostering cultural and economic exchange across the Asia-Pacific region.

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