In what aviation insiders are calling a high-altitude coup, Etihad Airways is set to upgrade its Sydney skies with the arrival of its flagship Airbus A350-1000, and let’s be frank—this isn’t just another plane. This is a flying palace on wings, equipped with Business Suites that feature sliding doors. Yes, sliding doors. In the air. On a plane.
Come 1 October 2025, travellers departing Sydney for Abu Dhabi will find themselves whisked away in Etihad’s next-generation A350, which will initially complement the airline’s faithful Dreamliner before fully taking over the route by 31 January 2026. By that time, all 10 weekly services between Sydney and the UAE capital will be flown on the A350—a move that’s being described as both a bold business manoeuvre and a generous gift to Australia’s discerning jet set.
And what a gift it is.
Business Class, But Make It Boutique
Forget reclining seats and bulkhead footrests. Etihad’s new Business Class is less “airline upgrade” and more “boutique hotel suite at 40,000 feet”. Each of the 44 Business Studios is a private cocoon, complete with a sliding door—yes, again, sliding doors!—a fully-flat bed stretching to 79 inches, wireless phone charging, Bluetooth headphone pairing, and a TV screen that’s larger than your cousin’s first apartment telly.
Etihad Guest In Business Class 350 Seat
According to Arik De, Etihad’s Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, “We are delighted to bring more premium travel options to Australia… When the schedule is fully deployed early next year, we will have grown overall seat availability by ten per cent, and premium seat count by over 20 per cent.”
A bump in business seats of more than 20 per cent is no small feat—it’s practically a corporate curtain call in the premium cabin game. And for leisure travellers craving a little luxe? This A350 brings first-class style to a business-class fare.
Economy, But Not As You Know It
Down the back—but hardly back of the pack—the A350 also offers 327 Economy Smart Seats, each kitted out with a 13-inch touchscreen, recline innovation that works, and Bluetooth pairing. Every passenger, regardless of ticket class, gets access to complimentary Wi-Fi chat packages and can opt for complete surfing if they need to keep up with the latest TikTok dance trends (or corporate spreadsheets, we suppose).
The A350’s cabin design reflects the sort of polish one would expect from an airline headquartered in Abu Dhabi—subtle, sophisticated, and seriously well thought-out. But the benefits go beyond aesthetics.
Efficiency Meets Elegance
Etihad A350 Exterior aircraft nose
Etihad’s A350-1000, powered by the Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines (yes, those Rolls-Royce), is one of the most fuel-efficient aircraft on the market, guzzling 25% less fuel and emitting 25% less CO₂ than its predecessors. That makes it not just a fancy bit of kit, but a smarter one, too.
As Scott Charlton, CEO of Sydney Airport, put it: “We’re proud to welcome Etihad’s A350 to Sydney for the first time… This next-generation aircraft is not only more sustainable but also a strong sign of Etihad’s confidence in the Sydney market.”
A New Era for Sydney’s International Gateway
Etihad’s move is timely. Sydney Airport has been steadily building its credentials as Australia’s premier international gateway, and the A350’s arrival only solidifies that standing. The airline will increase flights from daily to 10 per week starting 1 July 2025, offering a welcome mix of afternoon and evening departures. Perfect for those who fancy a pre-flight oyster or two at the terminal bar—or want more flexibility on the weekly travel rota.
The Etihad A350-1000 offers 44 Business seats that convert into flat beds with privacy doors
The move also aligns with Etihad’s post-Virgin Australia pivot. Following the wrap-up of their partnership, the Abu Dhabi-based carrier has inked a new interline agreement with Qantas, ensuring domestic connections remain seamless for Australians travelling beyond Sydney.
More than a Route—It’s a Statement
Since 2007, Etihad has been a steadfast presence in Sydney’s skies. But the A350’s arrival isn’t just about planes and seats—it’s a signal of post-pandemic resurgence, a renewed commitment to luxury and sustainability, and, frankly, a rather stylish vote of confidence in the Australian travel market.
With the A350, Etihad is offering more than just a ride to the Middle East. It’s offering a lifestyle in transit—a moment of calm, privacy, and indulgence in a world that rarely slows down.
So, come October, don’t be surprised if a few high-flyers start booking a ticket not for the destination, but for the suite with a door. After all, if you’re going to fly 14 hours, you might as well do it behind closed doors—with a flat bed, wireless charging, and your dignity intact.
By Susan Ng
