Etihad Plans On Lie-Flat Beds On A321neos
Intro
Early in 2025, Etihad plans to take delivery of their all-new Airbus A321LRs. With that being said, rumor has it that Etihad plans to install lie-flat beds on these brand-new jets.
Let's get into it!
The Details
As of now, Etihad has 26 Airbus A321neos on order. This is not to be confused with the six already in their fleet, which they acquired from Bamboo Airlines (which has now gone under). Those jets are expected to be delivered sometime at the beginning of next year.
Currently, Eithad has a small 29-aircraft narrowbody fleet featuring 14 A320s, 9 A321, and six former A321neos. All of these airplanes feature recliner seats in a 2-2 configuration.
Not Only Business Class, but First Class?
Traditionally, on these narrowbodies, when airlines install lie-flat seats, they have been in a two-class configuration like Jetblue. However, it seems to be that Etihad will be installing a single row of First Class on these planes in row 1.
This concept actually makes a lot of sense since Eithad is one of the few remaining airlines that maintain a decent first-class footprint. There is a whole first-class section already built at Abu Dhabi airport, as well as first-class lounges. In addition to that, the seats in row 1 aren't that much bigger than the likes of the ones in row 2, so giving out a last-minute upgrade for a low cost won't be detrimental to the cost of flying this aircraft.
Well, what are the seats going to look like? My guess is something similar to the ITA ones that I flew, but a bit sleeker with an Eithad twist to it.
Perhaps we could see a closing door added for additional privacy?
How About Business Class
For those not ready to shell out the premium for the two seats in First Class, Etihad will also offer a business class in 14 seats across 7 rows in a 1-1 configuration.
Now the question is: Will Etihad decide to go with seats facing the window like with ITA or seats facing the aisle like with Jetblue? My guess, and what do I know, is that Etihad will go with the reverse herringbone instead of the herringbone.
The first scheduled flight, as of now, seems to be in August next year from Abu Dhabi to Phuket.
Final Thoughts
Etihad plans on bringing lie-flat beds to business class and first class on their 26 A321neos coming to the fleet next year. This is exciting news for customers as each suite will have direct window and aisle access. Expect to see the first jet take flight as of next year.
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