Etihad in Early Talks with Boeing, Airbus for Widebody Aircraft

An Airbus A350-1000 passenger aircraft, operated by Etihad Airways.

Photographer: Christopher Pike/Bloomberg
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Etihad Airways is in early talks with Boeing Co. and Airbus SE for a possible widebody-aircraft order as the carrier aims to double in size in the coming years, according to people familiar with the matter.

Abu Dhabi’s flag carrier is looking to purchase twin-aisle jets to upgrade and expand its fleet of long-distance aircraft, said the people, who asked not to be identified discussing private matters. Etihad will most likely choose between the Airbus 350 and Boeing 777X, they said.