Etihad Airways Expands European Routes with A321LR Flights

Etihad Airways has announced a significant expansion of its European operations, introducing new routes using the Airbus A321LR. From February 1 to March 15, 2024, the airline will temporarily double its flights to Amsterdam, marking a notable increase in capacity since it began services to Schiphol in 2013. This expansion reflects Etihad’s ambitious growth strategy, which includes plans to operate 22 routes using the A321LR from its hub in Abu Dhabi by 2026.

In a noteworthy move, the airline will increase its daily flights to Amsterdam, utilizing the 160-seat A321LR. This aircraft features two first-class suites with fully flat beds and 14 business-class seats, also with fully flat beds, alongside 144 economy seats. The introduction of this aircraft on the Amsterdam route is significant, as it demonstrates Etihad’s commitment to enhancing passenger experience even on narrowbody flights.

The new schedule includes a departure from Abu Dhabi at 03:05, arriving in Amsterdam at 07:50. The return flight will leave Amsterdam at 22:00 and arrive back in Abu Dhabi at 06:50 the following day. According to OAG data, this strategic timing allows Etihad to connect passengers from across the Asia-Pacific region to Amsterdam effectively.

Increased Frequencies for Düsseldorf and Munich

In addition to Amsterdam, Etihad is also ramping up its service to Düsseldorf and Munich. Starting from September 1, 2026, the airline will operate two daily flights to Düsseldorf using the A321LR. Previously, the route, served by a Boeing 787-9, operated three times weekly. The shift to a narrowbody aircraft not only enhances frequency but also reintroduces a first-class cabin for the route, a first in several years.

The new schedule for Düsseldorf includes a departure from Abu Dhabi at 14:30, arriving at 19:25, and a return flight departing at 21:30, arriving back at 06:00 the next day. This change increases connectivity options for passengers traveling to and from Germany and reinforces Etihad’s competitive position in the market.

Similarly, Munich will see an increase in services starting on September 1, 2026, with a three-daily operation featuring the A321LR. Etihad will supplement its existing 787-9 flights, aiming to position itself as a strong competitor against other airlines serving this market. The A321LR will depart Abu Dhabi at 09:00 and return at 00:20 the following day.

Future Prospects and Route Expansion

As of December 2023, Etihad plans to operate 22 routes with the A321LR by 2026, covering 12 cities in Europe, eight in Asia, and two in Africa. Recent additions to this network include destinations like Krabi, Medan, and Phnom Penh. The A321LR has already proven its versatility, having been deployed to Zurich in November 2025, where it helped achieve a record three daily flights—an impressive frequency for a narrowbody aircraft.

The introduction of the A321LR on various routes underscores Etihad’s strategy to enhance its competitiveness in the aviation market. With increased frequency and enhanced passenger offerings, the airline aims to capture a larger share of the travel market, particularly in Europe.

As Etihad Airways continues to expand its reach, the performance of these new services will be closely monitored, potentially leading to more permanent changes in flight frequencies and destinations in the future.