ABU DHABI- Etihad Airways (EY) is set to launch the Airbus A350-1000 service on its route from Sydney (SYD) to Abu Dhabi (AUH) starting 1 October 2025. This new addition promises state-of-the-art Business Class suites and enhanced passenger comfort.
The airline plans to completely transition its 10 weekly flights from Sydney to the A350 by 31 January 2026, replacing the Boeing 787-9 on this vital Australia–UAE route and significantly increasing the availability of premium capacity.
Etihad Airways’ choice to employ the Airbus A350-1000 for the Sydney–Abu Dhabi path represents a strategic enhancement to its long-haul offering.
Initially, select flights will operate from 1 October 2025 using the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, with the A350 becoming the sole aircraft for all Sydney flights from 31 January 2026.
This transition will result in a 10% increase in seat capacity and more than a 20% increase in Business Class options.
The introduction of the A350 is part of a wider network optimization strategy, which includes daily A350 flights to Melbourne (MEL), which will still operate with Etihad’s latest 787-9s equipped with Business Suites. This initiative aligns with the airline’s commitment to offer consistent, high-quality service across its major Australian gateways.
Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer of Etihad Airways, highlighted the airline’s focus on premium travel and enhancing global connectivity.
The improved product aims to attract both Australian passengers traveling abroad and inbound customers connecting through Abu Dhabi to numerous destinations in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
A350-1000 Configuration
The Airbus A350-1000 showcases Etihad’s latest cabin innovations, powered by efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines that provide a 25% reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions.
The Business Class cabin features 44 private Business Studios with sliding doors, direct aisle access, and lie-flat beds measuring 79 inches. Each suite comes with a wireless charging dock, Bluetooth headphone pairing, and an 18.5-inch touchscreen for in-flight entertainment.
Economy passengers will benefit from 327 Smart Seats fitted with 13-inch touchscreens, innovative recline capabilities, and Bluetooth connectivity.
All passengers can enjoy complimentary Chat packages over Wi-Fi or upgrade to complete internet access during the flight.
These enhancements target business travelers and premium leisure passengers seeking a modern, comfortable, and connected in-flight experience.
Updated Flight Schedules for Sydney Service
From 1 October 2025:
- EY450: Abu Dhabi (AUH) 10:25 → Sydney (SYD) 06:10 +1 (787-9) – Mon, Thu, Sat, Sun
- EY451: Sydney (SYD) 15:40 → Abu Dhabi (AUH) 00:05 +1 (787-9) – Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sun
- EY454: Abu Dhabi (AUH) 21:15 → Sydney (SYD) 16:55 +1 (A350) – Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun
- EY455: Sydney (SYD) 21:30 → Abu Dhabi (AUH) 06:00 +1 (A350) – Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat
From 31 January 2026 (full A350 deployment):
- EY450: Abu Dhabi (AUH) 09:40 → Sydney (SYD) 06:10 +1 – Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
- EY451: Sydney (SYD) 16:20 → Abu Dhabi (AUH) 23:55 – Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sun
- EY454: Abu Dhabi (AUH) 21:55 → Sydney (SYD) 18:35 +1 – Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun
- EY455: Sydney (SYD) 21:30 → Abu Dhabi (AUH) 05:00 +1 – Mon to Fri, Sun
Emirates A350 to Australia
The introduction of Etihad’s A350 closely matches Emirates’ plans to enhance its service to Australia.
Emirates Airline (EK) is bolstering its premium offerings with the introduction of its long-range Airbus A350-900ULR to Adelaide (ADL), marking a significant milestone in its Australian services. The new aircraft will operate on routes EK440/441 starting December 1, 2025.
Additionally, Emirates (EK) is broadening its network of retrofitted Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s to eight new global destinations, including Bangkok (BKK), Hong Kong (HKG), and Frankfurt (FRA), originating from Dubai International Airport (DXB).
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Based on an article from aviationa2z.com: https://aviationa2z.com/index.php/2025/06/02/etihad-deploys-a350-with-private-business-class-suites-to-sydney/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=etihad-deploys-a350-with-private-business-class-suites-to-sydney
