Etihad Airways is marking its 20th anniversary with a special new livery on its Airbus A321neo. The design, inspired by local culture, features artwork depicting Abu Dhabi landmarks in both Arabic and English, showcasing Etihad’s signature desert-inspired color scheme and symbolizing the beauty of unity. This initiative reflects the airline’s commitment to its home and its vision of fostering connections through travel.
Beyond the celebratory livery, Etihad is expanding its fleet and route network. The airline is receiving six A321neos this year, leasing them after their previous operator, Bamboo Airways, terminated their leases. These relatively young aircraft, under six years old, offer 20% more fuel efficiency due to their CFM LEAP-1A engines. Etihad initially planned to order 26 A321neos in 2013 but adjusted its growth strategy. In December, the airline decided to lease six A321neos, launching operations this summer. Over the next 18 months, Etihad anticipates receiving more than 20 new aircraft, including A321LRs, Boeing 787 Dreamliners, and Airbus A350-1000s.
These additions will enable Etihad to expand its route network. Two A321neos have already been inducted and are operating regional routes around the Middle East and India, including destinations like Cairo, Doha, Mumbai, and Muscat. These routes will complement Etihad’s existing narrowbody fleet of 14 A320ceos and nine A321ceos. The fleet commonality has allowed for a swift integration process, achieved in seven months instead of the typical two years, thanks to the efficiency of Etihad’s teams and partners.
Meanwhile, the upcoming Paris Olympics is driving an increase in direct flights between China and France. Shanghai Airlines has increased its flights from Shanghai to Marseille to three times per week. China Southern Airlines now operates daily flights from Guangzhou to Paris, and Xiamen Airlines offers five flights per week from Xiamen to Paris. Adding daily flights by Air France and Cathay Pacific from Hong Kong to Paris, the total number of direct round-trip flights is expected to reach 70 per week by August. These figures indicate a strong recovery in international travel, reaching about half of the 2019 peak levels.
In 2019, Air France operated 42 flights per week to various Chinese cities, including Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai, and Wuhan. In 2024, only 21 flights per week to Hong Kong, Beijing, and Shanghai have resumed. Chinese airlines have also reduced the number of direct flights from second-tier cities to Paris, with only Chongqing and Xiamen maintaining direct flights as of June 2024. The increasing flight frequency ahead of the Olympics showcases the growing demand for international travel and the importance of connectivity between China and France.
Overall, these developments signify a positive trajectory for global travel and tourism. Etihad’s fleet expansion and route optimization enhance connectivity within the Middle East and Asia, fostering more accessible business and leisure travel. The increase in direct flights between China and France, particularly ahead of the Paris Olympics, underscores the ongoing recovery and growth in international travel.
