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Etihad has deployed its newest 787-9 Dreamliners on Melbourne–Abu Dhabi services, featuring updated business-class cabins.
The new Dreamliners, replacing older 787-9s on the route, increase total seats to 303, with economy seats up from 262 to 271 and business up from 26 to 32. All have in-seat charging, new entertainment systems, and access to high-speed onboard Wi-Fi.
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According to Etihad, all its services operating to and from Australia now feature its latest-generation cabins, and it is the only Gulf carrier to offer “fully-enclosed doored premium cabins” on all Australian flights.
“In December last year, Etihad transitioned to an all A350-1000 operation on its Sydney–Abu Dhabi route, accelerating the schedule by two months in response to strong demand,” the airline said.
“The introduction of the newest Boeing 787-9 to Melbourne further reinforces Etihad’s commitment to delivering a premium travel experience for Australian guests.
“Via Abu Dhabi, travellers from Melbourne can connect to a growing global network spanning the Middle East, Europe and beyond, with over 100 destinations expected to be served by the end of 2026, including a wave of new routes announced across 2025 and 2026.”
Etihad was set to replace its 787-9s and 777-300ERs on the Sydney–Abu Dhabi route with A350-1000s on 31 January following their introduction in October, but moved the timetable up in December, citing popular demand. The aircraft features 44 business suites and 327 economy seats.
“Transitioning Sydney to all-A350 reflects our long-standing commitment to delivering a superior experience for Australian guests,” said Javier Alija, vice president, global sales and distribution of Etihad Airways.
“The change sees our Boeing 777-300ER exit Australian skies, with both Sydney and Melbourne being flown with the latest luxury Etihad product across all cabins.
“With demand for premium capacity continuing to rise, our new A350 product positions us to deliver more luxury, privacy, comfort and premium service from one of our most important international markets.”
Etihad currently flies 10 times per week to Sydney, and has signalled plans to double its daily flights, while Melbourne has daily services.
The airline last year ended its long-running codeshare partnership with Virgin Australia after the latter’s exclusivity deal with Qatar Airways, leaving it without an Australian partner as Qantas remains linked to its UAE rival Emirates.
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