Etihad A350-1000 Makes Its Inaugural Landing at Australian Airport

ABU DHABI– Etihad Airways (EY) has officially launched its flagship Airbus A350-1000 for flights to Sydney (SYD). This marks a notable milestone, being the first time the aircraft lands in Australia.

Starting from December 6, 2025, all ten weekly flights connecting Abu Dhabi with Sydney will utilize the A350-1000, replacing the Boeing 777-300ER. This transition enhances efficiency, passenger capacity, and comfort on one of the airline’s longest routes.

Etihad A350-1000 Touches Down in Sydney

Etihad’s fleet has expanded to 115 aircraft, a significant rise from 96 just a year prior, showcasing a rapid growth phase.

This growth encompasses more A350-1000s, Boeing 787 Dreamliners, new Airbus A380s, and the first A321LRs. Each model is designed with both enhanced product offerings and sustainability in mind.

The Airbus A350-1000 is equipped with 44 private business suites with sliding doors and 327 economy seats configured in a spacious 3-3-3 layout. This model boasts a 25% reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions compared to older aircraft, supporting Etihad’s dedication to eco-friendly aviation.

In September 2025, Etihad carried 1.9 million passengers, indicating a robust 21% year-on-year increase and maintaining a solid 89% load factor. Network capacity increased by 25% year-on-year, fueled by new aircraft and routes across Asia, Africa, and Europe.

Etihad has introduced or declared 31 new destinations in 2025, such as Medan (Sumatra), Phnom Penh (Cambodia), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), and Krabi (Thailand), expanding its network to nearly 90 global destinations.

Europe continues to be a focal point for growth, with flights across the continent up 35% last summer versus the previous year. The airline now operates nine Airbus A350-1000s and has 11 more on order from Airbus.

Improved Services for Sydney Travelers

As of June 1, 2025, travelers using Etihad will enjoy better domestic links in Australia thanks to a new interline agreement with Qantas (QF). This partnership follows the conclusion of a previous agreement with Virgin Australia, ensuring seamless travel across major Australian cities.

Scott Charlton, CEO of Sydney Airport, remarked that the introduction of the A350 reflects Etihad’s confidence in the Sydney market. He described the aircraft’s efficiency and improved passenger experience as “fantastic news for travelers on Etihad’s longest route globally.”

This initiative aligns with Sydney Airport’s comprehensive strategy to enhance its standing as Australia’s premier international gateway, attracting next-gen aircraft and boosting global connectivity.

Updated Flight Schedule: Abu Dhabi – Sydney (Starting October 2025)

Flight	From	Departs	To	Arrives (+1 day)	Days	Aircraft
EY450	AUH	10:25	SYD	06:10	Mon, Thu, Sat, Sun	787-9
EY451	SYD	15:40	AUH	00:05	Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sun	787-9
EY454	AUH	21:15	SYD	16:55	Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun	A350-1000
EY455	SYD	21:30	AUH	06:00	Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat	A350-1000

By December 6, 2025, all flights from Sydney will be operated exclusively by the A350-1000, providing passengers with a more comfortable and eco-friendly travel option between Abu Dhabi (AUH) and Sydney (SYD).