Etihad Airways is expanding its fleet with an expansive aircraft buying plan, including a new order of 28 Boeing 777X aircraft. It is part of the airline’s overall plan to go public, as disclosed by CEO Antonoaldo Neves. The airline is positioning itself for long-term development, profitability, and international competitiveness.
Neves suggested that last month’s Boeing order could be just the start, with as many as 60 new planes potentially entering the fleet. The planes will help drive route development, improve operational efficiency, and consolidate Etihad’s role as a global hub in Abu Dhabi.
The 777X, which is long-range and fuel-efficient, will enable Etihad to serve high-growth long-haul markets while supporting sustainability objectives. Coupled with continued strategic refocusing and digital change, the airline is positioning itself as a lean, investor-attractive operation.
This ambitious expansion will further build investor confidence in anticipation of an IPO, marking a new age of expansion for one of the Middle East’s top carriers. The move coincides with the UAE’s aspiration to become a leading aviation power globally.