Etihad Airways has introduced its next-generation Airbus A321LR aircraft on all flights between Abu Dhabi and Kolkata, marking the aircraft’s debut in India. The inaugural flight, EY222, landed at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport at 8:35 pm on September 24 to a sold-out cabin across First, Business, and Economy.
The A321LR brings fully enclosed First Suites, lie-flat Business Class seats, and upgraded Economy cabins with 4K touchscreens and high-speed Wi-Fi. All eight weekly return flights on this route will now be operated by the A321LR, reaffirming Etihad’s growing presence in the Indian market, where it operates 183 flights per week to 11 destinations.
For Kolkata, the launch signals a boost in connectivity for both leisure and corporate travellers. With rising investments in IT and financial services and steady demand from students and family visitors, the city’s market is witnessing a surge in international travel. Travel agents in the Kolkata market expect increased demand for premium seating, as business and cultural exchanges with the Middle East and beyond expand. Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer of Etihad Airways, said, “India is an important market for Etihad, and we’re proud to bring our newest aircraft to Kolkata, offering a superior flying experience in our signature style.”