Etihad Airways leases American Airlines' London Heathrow slot for summer 2025

Currently, bookings for these new flights are not open. As of now, Etihad operates 28 weekly flights between Abu Dhabi and Heathrow using a mix of Airbus A380s and Boeing 787 Dreamliners.

The expansion in operations reflects increased travel demand between the UAE and the UK. It also reinforces Etihad's position as a leading airline on the Abu Dhabi-London route. Presently, British Airways offers daily services using Boeing 787-8 or B787-9 aircraft between these destinations.

In addition to this development, Etihad is set to receive the more advanced Airbus A321LR variant soon. This model features a cabin configuration with Business Class seats that fully recline into beds, Economy seating, and First Class suites designed for slightly longer routes with fewer passengers.

Slot leasing is common at congested airports like Heathrow where airlines must own or lease slots for takeoff and landing rights. Leasing provides airlines an opportunity to temporarily expand their services without investing in acquiring new slots permanently.

In December 2023, the UK government released a consultation paper proposing reforms in airport slot regulations aimed at fostering competition and clarity in slot allocation processes. In response, London Heathrow Airport called for consistency in passenger experience amidst any regulatory changes.