Etihad Deploys fresh Airbus A321LR to this Indian City

ABU DHABI— Etihad Airways (EY) will upgrade its service to Kolkata (CCU) with the introduction of the advanced Airbus A321LR, reaffirming its commitment to the Indian market.

Beginning 26 September 2025, flights between Zayed International Airport, Abu Dhabi (AUH), and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata (CCU), will be operated exclusively by the Airbus A321LR, offering enhanced comfort and modern amenities across all cabin classes.

Etihad Business Class | Photo: Etihad

Etihad New A321LR to Kolkata

The Airbus A321LR (Long Range) is Etihad’s latest addition to its fleet, engineered to deliver wide-body comfort on a single-aisle aircraft.

It features luxury First Suites in a 1-1 configuration, 14 fully lie-flat Business Class seats, and next-generation Economy seats with 4K touchscreens and high-speed Wi-Fi.

Etihad Airways aims to transform the mid-haul flying experience with this aircraft by offering travelers more space, privacy, and advanced in-flight entertainment.

The First Suites are designed to deliver a premium, forward-facing, fully-flat experience, while the Business Class cabin ensures maximum comfort for corporate and leisure travelers alike.

Economy Class also benefits from the upgrade, with ergonomically improved seating and seamless digital access throughout the journey.

Photo: Etihad

Strengthening Etihad’s Position in the Indian Market

India remains one of Etihad’s most strategic international markets, with Kolkata (CCU) serving as a growing business and leisure destination.

Arik De, Etihad’s Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, highlighted the importance of this move: “India is a key market for Etihad, and we are delighted to elevate our Kolkata service with our latest A321LR aircraft. This investment underlines our commitment to world-class service and deeper regional connectivity.”

The new aircraft supports the airline’s long-term strategy of offering modern, fuel-efficient planes that deliver both environmental and customer service benefits.

With better range, reduced emissions, and improved operational efficiency, the A321LR will also help optimize capacity and scheduling flexibility for Etihad’s network in South Asia.

Photo: Arik De, Etihad

Expanding Regional Access

This aircraft upgrade positions Etihad as a preferred option for travelers flying between Abu Dhabi (AUH) and eastern India.

Passengers will benefit from greater access to the airline’s expanding global network, as the A321LR allows seamless onward connections to destinations across Europe, North America, and the Middle East via AUH.

Etihad’s ongoing investments in fleet modernization and premium onboard products reflect its aim to be a global leader in guest experience and operational excellence.

Photo: Clément Alloing

Emirates Deploys 777 with Premium Economy to Kolkata

While, the other flag carrier of the UAE, Emirates (EK), will introduce its Premium Economy cabin on flights between Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Kolkata Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) starting 18 July 2025.

The new offering, available on select Boeing 777 services, marks Emirates’ continued expansion of its Premium Economy product in India following successful deployments in Mumbai (BOM), Bengaluru (BLR), and Ahmedabad (AMD).

Emirates (EK) will operate Premium Economy service on flight EK573 from Kolkata (CCU) to Dubai (DXB) four times weekly—on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The flight departs Kolkata at 20:45 IST and arrives in Dubai at 00:05 GST. The return service, EK572, departs Dubai at 13:05 GST and lands in Kolkata at 19:15 IST. All times are local.

This development increases Emirates’ offering to 11 weekly flights between the two cities. Daily service continues on EK570/571, while Premium Economy is available exclusively on the EK572/573 rotation.

The upgraded cabin is part of Emirates’ Boeing 777 configuration and is designed to cater to travelers seeking enhanced comfort without the price tag of Business Class.

Boeing 777 Emirates
photo- Emirates

Features of Emirates Premium Economy

Emirates’ Premium Economy cabin includes 24 seats arranged in a 2-4-2 layout. Each seat is upholstered in cream leather and offers increased pitch, wider dimensions, deeper recline, and adjustable leg and headrests. These enhancements create a superior long-haul experience tailored for affordability and luxury.

Other key benefits include:

• 13.3-inch HD screens with access to the ice entertainment library
• Bluetooth headphone pairing, allowing the use of personal audio devices
• 35kg checked baggage and 10kg cabin allowance
• Enhanced meal service served on Royal Doulton china with stainless steel cutlery
• Premium wine selection and exclusive beverages
• Cabin ambiance with wood-grain finishes and mood lighting

This product has received strong demand in Indian metro markets. Its introduction in Kolkata strengthens Emirates’ footprint in eastern India and aligns with growing demand from leisure and business travelers looking for a mid-tier cabin alternative.

India remains a core market for Emirates, and the introduction of Premium Economy on the Dubai–Kolkata sector underlines the airline’s strategic commitment to high-growth routes.

With consistently high passenger volumes between the UAE and India, Emirates aims to differentiate itself with innovative onboard products tailored to evolving travel expectations.

Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.

Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News

The post Etihad Deploys New Airbus A321LR to this Indian City appeared first on Aviation A2Z.