Etihad Airways is expanding its fleet by adding A321neo aircraft. Further, the airline will be expanding its short-haul capabilities. In fact, these new aircraft operate around Indian cities; here’s all about Etihad Airways inducting A321neo aircraft.
Etihad To Induct 6 A321neo Aircraft To Its Fleet
Earlier, Etihad Airways had ordered 26 Airbus A321neo aircraft back in 2013. With its current fleet of nineteen A321-200 aircraft with 196 seats, the airline serves the Indian subcontinent as well as other short-haul destinations within the Etihad network. For the time being, meanwhile, Etihad plans to add six ex-Bamboo Airways A321neos to its fleet by purchasing them.
The aircrafts were said to be of no use after Bamboo Airways reorganised its operation. Therefore, the airline handed them to Aviation Capital Group. Etihad will take over the 6 A321neo aircraft, out of which 3 will join the fleet by June 2024 and the rest will join in October 2024. The aircraft is in 3 different kinds of configuration. Firstly, 3 aircrafts are of 198 seats, including 16 in business class and 182 in economy. Secondly, one aircraft includes 208 seats, with 200 in economy and 8 in business class. Lastly, there are 2 aircrafts of 223 seats each, including 215 in economy and 8 in business class.
The Short-Haul Destinations Include Indian Cities
The short-haul destinations include Ammam, Bahrain, Cairo, Doha, Bangalore, Mumbai, Muscat and Delhi. The A321neo will operate on Abu Dhabi-Bangalore and Abu Dhabi-Delhi routes in June. Further, the frequency on the Abu Dhabi-Bangalore route will increase too!
The airline has also released its preliminary traffic statistics for April. The report highlights passenger traffic with successfully transporting 1.4 million guests. Additionally, the data shows that Etihad consistently maintained an 84% average passenger load factor. The airline’s effective capacity management and robust demand are indicated by the high load factor. It also reflects the airline’s strategic efforts to improve passenger satisfaction and operational efficiency. Etihad is well-positioned for future expansion thanks to its capacity to draw large numbers of travellers and its operational efficiency.
Also Read: Etihad To Expand UAE-India Flight Network; Adds Jaipur To Its Routes
This represents a significant rise in passengers, highlighting the airline’s continuous post-pandemic recovery and growth.
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia
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