New Boeing 777/200LRS to support Etihad Airways' accelerated growth plan

Etihad Airways announced its intention to purchase from Air India five Boeing 777-200 LRs, the longest range passenger aircraft in operation to support its accelerated network growth plan. The two carriers signed a letter of intent in Mumbai earlier this week paving the way for the deal. The 777-200 LRs will be used on the airline’s new route between Abu Dhabi and Los Angeles which starts on June 1, 2014. Etihad Airways currently flies to New York, Chicago, Washington DC and Toronto in North America, and to São Paulo in Brazil, and has stated its ambition to add new services to both continents. Subject to approvals, the aircraft will be delivered to Etihad Airways from the beginning of 2014 and each will be re-fitted in a three class cabin configuration consistent with similar aircraft in the Etihad Airways fleet. It is expected that the first aircraft will enter service in April 2014. The purchase comes as Etihad Airways finalises details on a new fleet order which will meet its organic growth and expansion requirements to 2025 in line with its rolling network plan.