Etihad is bringing its signature luxury to flights a little closer to home.
The UAE airliner just unveiled its new A321LR aircraft, a narrow-body plane that will bring the upmost comfort on short- and medium-haul flights (think flights to Milan, Bangkok, Zurich, and more). The occasion marks the first time the new First Suites are making an appearance in a single-aisle aircraft.
And those enclosed First Suites are offering up an intimate onboard experience. With just two of these seats on the plane, you’ll get to lounge in a fully flat, forward-facing bed that extends up to 78.65 inches when reclined; it also has a seat width of 21.5 inches and a spot for a companion to sit if they feel like popping in. Once it’s time for some shut-eye, a full turn-down service will begin, complete with loungewear from Giorgio Armani. When you wake up from your snooze, you can enjoy some à la carte any-time dining and a 20-inch 4K screen for all your entertainment needs, too.

Image courtesy of Etihad Airways
Your first-class experience begins, though, before you even step on your flight. The Etihad Concierge will be around to help you plan your trip 24/7, and you’ll also get a private chauffeur service to and from the airport. And the First Suite ticket also comes with a dedicated check-in, along with a personal escort, who will take you to the First Lounge and then to boarding. Upon embarking the plane, you will be accompanied right to your chauffeur. If flying out of Abu Dhabi, you can even have a bag-free trip, thanks to the Home Check-In and Land & Leave Services.
“First isn’t just a seat—it’s an experience that starts the moment you choose to fly with us,” Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways, said in a statement. “We’re bringing First to more destinations and elevating it at every touchpoint, combining the elegance of Champagne and caviar with the convenience of modern luxury.”

Image courtesy of Etihad Airways
The Business cabin has its perks, too, with 14 fully flat 78-inch beds, a 17.3-inch screen, and plenty of storage space. Economy, meanwhile, has 144 seats that are better than the typical economy class; those perches offer a five-inch recline on a 18.4-inch-wide seat. No matter where you sit onboard, you’ll get access to streaming, live television, and more, thanks to the plane’s Viasat system with speedy Wi-Fi.
The A321LR is set to hit the skies on 1 August, along with 10 other aircraft joining the Etihad fleet this year. Happy flying.