Etihad Airways has announced a significant upgrade to its Kolkata service, confirming that its flights between Abu Dhabi and the eastern Indian city will be operated by the state-of-the-art Airbus A321LR from September 26, 2025.
The UAE national carrier revealed the move on Wednesday, July 9, highlighting its commitment to enhancing passenger comfort and expanding its premium offerings on key routes. All flights between Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata will transition to the next-generation aircraft, which boasts improved efficiency, luxury features, and modern in-flight amenities.
“India is a key market for Etihad, and we are delighted to elevate our Kolkata service with our latest A321LR aircraft,” said Arik De, Etihad’s Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer. “This investment underlines our ongoing commitment to providing world-class service and greater connectivity across the Indian subcontinent.”
The Airbus A321LR is a single-aisle aircraft with wide-body comfort, making it ideally suited for medium-haul routes like Abu Dhabi–Kolkata. The aircraft is configured to cater to all traveller segments with:
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First Suites offering forward-facing, fully-flat beds in a 1-1 layout for maximum privacy and exclusivity;
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Business Class featuring 14 lie-flat seats designed for comfort and rest;
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Economy Class equipped with ergonomic seating, 4K touchscreens, and high-speed Wi-Fi for enhanced entertainment and connectivity.
Etihad’s decision to deploy the A321LR also aligns with its broader strategy to modernise its fleet while enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability. The aircraft offers lower fuel consumption and emissions compared to previous models, without compromising on passenger comfort.
India continues to be a vital market for Etihad, with the airline expanding services across the country and strengthening its position as a key connector between South Asia and the wider Middle East, Europe, and North America.
Etihad’s upgraded service to Kolkata will provide travellers with a more refined flying experience, whether flying for business or leisure. The move also reinforces the airline’s growing footprint in India and its commitment to delivering high-quality travel options to the region.
With its modern fleet and growing international network, Etihad remains a competitive player in the premium air travel market, offering enhanced access and comfort to passengers on one of its key South Asian routes.
