Etihad Airways Expands Fleet With 32 New Airbus Widebody Aircraft

Etihad Airways has embarked on one of its largest fleet expansion phases in years, signaling a confident return to growth as the airline modernizes its operations and expands its global network. Over the past six months, from mid-2025 through November 2025, Etihad has confirmed major new aircraft commitments—most notably during the Dubai Airshow 2025—totaling more than 30 new widebody jets, including both firm orders and leasing agreements.

At the Dubai Airshow 2025, held from November 18, Etihad Airways announced firm orders for six Airbus A330-900neos, becoming a new customer for the A330neo family. The A330-900neo is known for its lower operating costs and fuel efficiency compared to the A350, making it an ideal choice for medium- to long-haul routes.

The airline also placed orders for seven Airbus A350-1000s, raising its total A350-1000 commitments to 27 aircraft, and three Airbus A350F freighters, expanding its A350F cargo fleet orderbook to 10 aircraft. Additionally, Etihad confirmed lease agreements for nine A330-900neos through Dublin-based lessor Avolon, enabling faster fleet growth ahead of new deliveries.

In total, these announcements represent a commitment to 32 additional Airbus widebody aircraft, underscoring Etihad’s renewed growth strategy and its focus on expanding both passenger and cargo operations with next-generation, fuel-efficient jets.

Beyond the Airshow, Etihad continued to expand its leasing activity, securing 13 more aircraft through Avolon to accelerate its fleet renewal and expansion plans. These leased aircraft—primarily A330-900neos—will help bridge near-term capacity gaps as Etihad awaits new deliveries from Airbus, ensuring operational continuity and efficiency.

The new orders underscore Etihad Airways’ renewed focus on sustainable growth following years of restructuring. By investing in next-generation aircraft, the Abu Dhabi-based carrier aims to reduce fuel burn, lower emissions, and enhance its long-haul passenger experience. The A350-1000 and A330-900neo will strengthen Etihad’s premium product offering on intercontinental routes, while the addition of A350 freighters will expand its cargo division amid rising global trade demand.

Etihad Airways Current Fleet Overview

As of November 2025, Etihad Airways operates a modern mixed fleet across narrow-body and wide-body categories. Fleet data from the carrier and industry tracking sources indicate the airline has around 108 active aircraft, and 98 jets on order.

Airbus A320 Family: The airline uses A320-200s, A321-200s, A321neo and A321LR for regional and short-/medium-haul routes.
Airbus A350-1000: Etihad has begun introducing this long-haul wide-body type, with fleet commitments growing.
Airbus A380-800: The iconic quad-jet remains in service for key high-capacity routes, though in limited numbers.
Boeing 777-300ER & Boeing 787 Dreamliner: On the Boeing side, Etihad operates 777-300ERs and 787-9 and 787-10s for long-haul services. The airline also operates the 777-200LRF for its cargo routes.
The average fleet age is reported at around 8.7 years (as of September 2025).
Etihad announced major new orders for Boeing 777-8 and 777-9
Between mid-2025 and November, Etihad announced major new orders (e.g., 32 additional Airbus wide-bodies) and is preparing for further delivery waves from 2027 onwards.
The carrier aims to expand its global footprint and modernize its fleet amid growing demand for both passenger and cargo capacity.

Etihad’s latest fleet expansion marks a strategic milestone in its transformation journey. The airline is positioning itself to meet growing demand across Asia, Europe, and North America, while reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s role as a global aviation hub. With its latest commitments, Etihad Airways signals not only its recovery but also its readiness to compete at the forefront of the next generation of sustainable air travel.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, Etihad.com, Reuters