Etihad unveils Airbus A321LR with upgraded cabins for medium-haul flights

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Etihad unveils Airbus A321LR with upgraded cabins for medium-haul flights

Research

Zach Griff Senior reporter | The Points Guy

By Sky Industry News

Jul 24, 2025

Etihad Airways is introducing its new Airbus A321LR, marking a significant upgrade for the airline's medium-haul network. The United Arab Emirates carrier aims to enhance the travel experience with this aircraft, which features both first-class and business-class cabins.

The A321LR is Etihad's first single-aisle jet equipped with a proper first-class product and lie-flat pods in the business-class cabin. This model also offers an extended range compared to standard A321s, allowing Etihad to expand its destinations from Abu Dhabi International Airport.

"The star of the show is undoubtedly the all-new first-class product on this plane," according to Zach Griff from The Points Guy. These suites are designed with 22.5-inch-wide seats, 20-inch 4K TVs, Bluetooth audio connectivity, and other amenities aimed at providing an elevated flying experience.

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In business class, Etihad has installed 14 pods in a reverse herringbone layout. "While many airlines are all-in on sliding doors," Griff notes that Etihad chose not to include them due to operational considerations related to temperature conditions.

The economy section includes 144 seats with features such as 13.3-inch 4K monitors and USB charging ports. However, there are no power outlets available in this class.

Etihad plans to deploy these jets on routes including Thailand, Seychelles, and Paris by year-end. The inaugural flight is set for August 1st from Abu Dhabi to Phuket International Airport in Thailand.

Zach Griff describes the overall enhancements as making the A321LR "the airline's best narrow-body jet," comparable even to some wide-body models regarding modern amenities and technology upgrades.