The inaugural flight, EY222, touched down at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Airport (CCU), Kolkata, India at 8.35pm on Sept 24. All of Etihad’s eight return flights per week between Abu Dhabi and Kolkata will now be operated by the A321LR, Etihad said.

The upgraded A321LR service is part of Etihad’s operations in the Indian market, where the airline operates 183 flights per week to 11 destinations across India.

The network connects passengers between India and the Middle East, with onward connections to Europe, Africa and North America.

In July, Etihad took delivery of the first of 30 A321LR aircraft scheduled to join its expanding fleet, with a second A321LR joining the fleet in August, the carrier said.

Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is an important gateway to India, with Etihad carrying more than 135k passengers annually between the city and Abu Dhabi.

According to Etihad, along with an increase in visitors travelling to India, the airline is also responding to demand from corporate travellers, overseas students and passengers visiting friends and family.

Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, Etihad Airways, said: “India is an important market for Etihad and we’re incredibly proud to be in Kolkata to welcome our newest aircraft, the A321LR, on its inaugural flight to India.”

“Whether choosing our luxurious First Suites, lie-flat Business seats with direct aisle access and a window-view, or our next-generation Economy cabin, our guests will enjoy a superior flying experience in Etihad’s signature style.”

The A321LR is intended to provide Etihad’s premium cabin standards and service on short- and medium-haul routes. The aircraft is configured to offer upgraded comfort, a refined design, and high-speed Wi-Fi across all cabins, the airline mentioned.

First

The A321LR offers two private First Suites on the Kolkata route, each with sliding doors for privacy. The seats convert to fully-flat beds and can accommodate a companion and additional space to dine, work, and relax.

Features include a 20-inch 4K screen, wireless charging, and Bluetooth connectivity. First guests have access to Etihad’s culinary services and ground services such as chauffeurs, concierge, and meet-and-assist support.

Business

The aircraft has 14 fully lie-flat Business seats in a 1-1 herringbone layout, each with direct aisle access and window views. Seats include a 17.3-inch 4K touchscreen, wireless charging, Bluetooth connectivity, personal storage, and soft furnishings and tableware designed by Armani/Casa.

Economy

Economy class has 144 ergonomically designed seats with generous legroom. Each seat is equipped with a 13.3-inch 4K touchscreen, USB charging, and Bluetooth headphone pairing. Entertainment options include films, series, and games in multiple languages.

All cabins have high-speed Wi-Fi, with improved service on Asian routes, and enlarged overhead storage for added convenience throughout the journey, the airline added.