ABU DHABI– Etihad Airways (EY) has introduced its flagship Airbus A350-1000 on flights to Sydney (SYD), marking the aircraft’s first arrival in Australia.
Starting 6 December 2025, all ten of Etihad’s weekly services between Abu Dhabi and Sydney will be operated by the A350-1000, replacing the Boeing 777-300ER. The change boosts efficiency, capacity, and passenger comfort on one of the airline’s longest routes.
Etihad A350-1000 Lands at Sydney Airport
Etihad Airways’ (EY) current fleet has reached 115 aircraft, up from 96 a year ago, reflecting one of its most rapid growth periods.
The expansion includes more A350-1000s, Boeing 787 Dreamliners, additional Airbus A380s, and the first A321LRs—each designed to enhance the airline’s product and sustainability goals.
The Airbus A350-1000 features 44 private business suites with sliding doors and 327 economy seats arranged in a 3-3-3 layout. The aircraft delivers 25% less fuel burn and CO₂ emissions compared to older models, aligning with Etihad’s commitment to sustainable aviation.
In September 2025, Etihad carried 1.9 million passengers, a 21% year-on-year increase, maintaining a high 89% load factor. Network capacity grew 25% year on year, supported by new aircraft and routes across Asia, Africa, and Europe.
Etihad has launched or announced 31 new destinations in 2025, including Medan (Sumatra), Phnom Penh (Cambodia), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), and Krabi (Thailand), bringing its network close to 90 destinations worldwide.
Europe remains a key growth region, with flights across the continent up 35% last summer compared to the previous year. The airline now operates nine Airbus A350-1000s, with 11 more on order from Airbus.
Enhanced Service for Sydney Passengers
From 1 June 2025, Etihad passengers has gained improved domestic connectivity in Australia through a new interline agreement with Qantas (QF), following the end of the airline’s previous partnership with Virgin Australia. This ensures continued one-stop access across major Australian cities.
According to Scott Charlton, CEO of Sydney Airport, the A350’s arrival signals Etihad’s confidence in the Sydney market. He highlighted the aircraft’s efficiency and enhanced passenger experience, describing it as “fantastic news for travelers on Etihad’s longest route globally.”
The move also supports Sydney Airport’s broader strategy to strengthen its role as Australia’s leading international gateway by attracting next-generation aircraft and expanding global connectivity.
Updated Flight Schedule: Abu Dhabi – Sydney (Effective October 2025)
| Flight | From | Departs | To | Arrives (+1 day) | Days | Aircraft |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EY450 | AUH | 10:25 | SYD | 06:10 | Mon, Thu, Sat, Sun | 787-9 |
| EY451 | SYD | 15:40 | AUH | 00:05 | Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sun | 787-9 |
| EY454 | AUH | 21:15 | SYD | 16:55 | Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun | A350-1000 |
| EY455 | SYD | 21:30 | AUH | 06:00 | Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat | A350-1000 |
By December 6, 2025, all Sydney flights will transition fully to the A350-1000, offering passengers a more comfortable and environmentally responsible journey between Abu Dhabi (AUH) and Sydney (SYD).
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