Etihad Airways Orders Six Airbus A330-900s, Expands A350-1000 and A350F Orderbook
- Joe Breitfeller
- Nov 18, 2025
- 3 min read
Airbus has today announced that Etihad Airways has placed a firm order for six Airbus A330-900s, becoming a new customer for the type. The carrier has also increased their A350-1000 orderbook from 20 to 27, and their A350F commitment from seven to 10 aircraft.
On Tuesday (November 18, 2025), from day two of the Dubai Airshow 2025, Airbus announced that Etihad Airways has become the latest A330neo customer with the placement of a firm order for six A330-900s. Additionally, the carrier disclosed an order for seven additional A350-1000s, increasing their total for the type to 27, as well as for three A350F, bringing the airline’s A350F commitment to 10 aircraft. Etihad Airways also announced the commitment of nine A330-900s on lease from aircraft lessor Avolon.
In Tuesday’s announcement, Etihad Airways’ CEO, Antonoaldo Neves, said,
“These aircraft strengthen our operations across medium-haul, long-haul, and cargo. The A330neo brings the right combination of efficiency and flexibility for our regional and mid-range growth, while the A350-1000 continues to deliver exceptional performance on our long-haul network. The A350F freighter adds significant capability to our cargo division as global demand continues to expand. Our partnership with Airbus continues to play an important role in shaping our future fleet, and we are proud to be building one of the world’s most modern and efficient widebody operations.”
Also commenting on Etihad’s new widebody orders, Airbus’ EVP of Sales – Commercial Aircraft, Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, said,
“Etihad Airways’ continued investment in our latest-generation widebody aircraft is a testament to the strength of our partnership and the shared vision we have for the future of aviation in the UAE and beyond. The combination of the A350 Family and A330neo will deliver unmatched efficiency and flexibility to Etihad’s operations, supporting its future development.”
The Airbus A350 can fly up to 9,700 nautical miles (18,000 kilometers) nonstop, setting new standards for intercontinental travel. The aircraft features state-of-the-art technologies and aerodynamics delivering unmatched standards of efficiency and comfort. With the latest generation Rolls-Royce engines and the use of lightweight materials, the A350 delivers a 25 percent advantage in fuel burn, operating costs and carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions, compared to previous generation competitor aircraft.
Built with over 70 percent advanced materials, the A350F will be 46 tons lighter than competitors, and will feature the industry’s largest main deck cargo door. Additionally, it is the only freighter fully meeting ICAO's 2027 CO₂ standards and by the time it enters service it will be 50 percent SAF capable, with a target for 100% by 2030. Currently, the assembly of test aircraft in Toulouse, France is underway.
Powered by the latest generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, the A330neo is designed to fly up to 8,100 nautical miles (15,000 kilometers) nonstop, and delivers a reduction in fuel burn, CO2 emissions, and operating cost by 25 percent compared to previous generation competitor aircraft. Additionally, The A330neo features the award-winning Airspace cabin, which offers passengers an elevated flying experience.
Like all Airbus aircraft, the A330neo and the A350 Family are able to operate with up to 50 percent Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus is targeting to have their aircraft up to 100 percent SAF capable by 2030. As of October 31, 2025, the A350 Family had won over 1,400 orders from 64 customers, and the A330 Family had won over 1,900 orders from more than 130 customers worldwide.
Source: Airbus
