Eithad Airways is unquestionably one of the world’s fastest-growing network airlines. It has already announced service to an eye-popping 30+ new and returning cities this year, although big questions remain about whether such heavy expansion in so little time is sustainable. It is also expanding in existing markets.
In the most recent development, it will now deploy the Airbus A321LR to Amsterdam, albeit only temporarily. The narrowbody will also be used to increase the frequency to Düsseldorf and Munich. Currently, Etihad plans 22 LR-operated routes from its Abu Dhabi hub in 2026, although this number will increase.
Between February 1 and March 15, the UAE carrier will double its flights to Amsterdam. Since beginning passenger flights to Schiphol in 2013, Etihad has always served the airport with no more than a daily frequency. The increased operation, while temporary, is thus notable. Its performance will help to dictate whether it attempts to increase frequencies in the future.
In the first half of 2025, Etihad served Düsseldorf three times a week on the Boeing 787-9. Switching to the A321LR in October marked the first time the route had been served by a narrowbody. The much lower capacity meant the frequency rose to daily, providing a much more competitive offering. It also had a first-class cabin for the first time in years.
When writing on December 3, and subject to change, Etihad’s LR network in 2026 consists of 12 airports in Europe, eight in Asia and two in Africa. Recent LR-operated launches include Krabi, together with Medan and Phnom Penh. Obviously, more routes will be announced soon, while some (including Amsterdam) will only see the narrowbody for a brief time.
Etihad first deployed the 160-seater to Zurich in November 2025. The single-aisle equipment’s frequency varies from eight weekly to twice-daily. When added to its widebody operation, it has a record triple-daily service to the high-yielding Swiss city.
Whether you like longer narrowbody flights or not, the equipment is playing a critical role in increasing the airline’s competitiveness. https://simpleflying.com/etihad-airways-adds-new-8-hour-airbus-a321lr-flights-to-europe/
