Etihad Expands Its Fleet with Significant Airbus Purchase and Avolon Leases
Etihad Airways has announced a significant expansion of its Airbus fleet during the Dubai Airshow 2025. The airline has made commitments for 32 additional widebody aircraft and entered into a leasing agreement with Avolon for 13 more jets.
This announcement was unveiled on November 18, 2025, during a press conference featuring Christian Scherer, CEO of the Commercial Aircraft division, along with Etihad CEO Antonoaldo Neves. This marked the first commercial order for the European manufacturer on the second day of the event.
The airline plans to incorporate A350-1000s, A350Fs, and A330-900s, with deliveries anticipated to commence in 2027. While a specific breakdown between firm orders and options has not been disclosed, Etihad indicated that these new commitments will elevate its total new widebody acquisitions for the year to 60 aircraft.
Neves expressed satisfaction with the A350’s performance, highlighting its exceptional fuel efficiency and minimal downtime. Although he mentioned a conceptual stretched version might be possible, it is currently not a priority. Instead, the airline is focused on acquiring more A350-1000s and sees Asia and Southeast Asia as vital markets for its A330 fleet. This strategy is expected to enable increased capacity for various operations.
In addition to the direct purchase of six A330-900s, Etihad will lease nine additional A330neos from Avolon, bringing the total future A330neo fleet to 15 jets. Avolon is also set to provide four A320neo family aircraft from its order book, with deliveries scheduled for 2027 and 2028.
The new widebody and narrowbody jets are crucial for Etihad’s growth strategy, supporting expansion both in Abu Dhabi and across medium-haul and short-haul networks. As of November 17, the carrier’s operating fleet comprised 115 aircraft, servicing over 100 destinations worldwide.
Neves remarked that the new acquisitions provide the “flexibility and efficiency” required for the next phase of growth. He noted that the A330neo will enhance the medium-haul network, while the A320neo family will bolster short-haul operations and improve connectivity through Abu Dhabi.
Avolon’s CEO Andy Cronin praised Etihad’s decision to expand its A330neo fleet, calling it a strong endorsement of the program amidst growing demand for widebody capacity. Avolon currently has 87 A330neos in its owned and committed fleet and was a launch customer for this aircraft type back in 2014.
What are your thoughts on Etihad’s latest fleet expansion at the Dubai Airshow?
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