Abu Dhabi-based airline Etihad has revealed the interiors of its A321LR at the Dubai Airshow, giving a preview of what flying is like on this new slimline aircraft. Jenny Southan report

Etihad Airways has unveiled the region’s first narrowbody aircraft to feature private First Suites, placing its new Airbus A321LR at the centre of attention during this year’s Dubai Airshow.

The arrival of these suites on a single-aisle jet marks a notable shift in how premium cabins are being reimagined for short and medium-haul travel, signalling the airline’s intent to deliver long-haul comfort on routes traditionally served by smaller aircraft.

On static display throughout the week, the A321LR has been configured with just two enclosed First Suites, 14 lie-flat Business Studios and 144 economy seats, including 36 with additional legroom.

The aircraft is already serving destinations such as Chiang Mai, Dusseldorf, Krabi, Phnom Penh, Phuket, Tunis and Zurich from Abu Dhabi, allowing travellers on relatively short sectors to experience the kind of privacy and rest usually reserved for widebody flights.

Etihad highlights the jet’s extended range and fuel efficiency as key factors in deploying it on these routes, aiming to blend operational flexibility with a noticeably elevated onboard experience.

The First Suites themselves offer fully-flat beds, a personal 20-inch 4K screen with Bluetooth audio and a range of amenities that include co-branded Giorgio Armani kits, designer loungewear and ESPA skincare. A complete turndown service is also provided, reinforcing the airline’s ambition to bring a more exclusive standard of luxury to a narrowbody cabin.

Business class flyers receive forward-facing lie-flat seating (see featured image at the top of the story) with direct aisle access, supported by 17.3-inch 4K screens, noise-cancelling headphones, wireless charging and high-speed wifi. Even in economy, passengers benefit from 13.3-inch 4K touchscreens, Bluetooth connectivity and complimentary dining, with a second service available on longer flights.

This year, Etihad has expanded its presence at Dubai Airshow with a dedicated pavilion showcasing its inflight products alongside Etihad Aviation Training, which is welcoming visitors to explore future partnership opportunities. The airline’s Airbus A380 also took part in the opening fly-past, adding to the display of renewed momentum across the business.

For Etihad, introducing First Suites on the A321LR demonstrates a strategic push towards differentiating the passenger experience at every cabin level, while reinforcing its position in a region where premium air travel continues to evolve rapidly.

By pairing long-haul grade comfort with the versatility of a narrowbody aircraft, the airline is setting a precedent that may influence future fleet and cabin strategies across the Middle East and beyond.