Etihad Airways has reported its strongest performance ever in the first half of 2025. The airline achieved record profitability, carried the highest number of passengers in its history, and continued to expand its network. This remarkable growth is the result of a combination of operational efficiency, network expansion, and improved customer experiences.

Record Profit and Revenue Growth

In the first six months of 2025, Etihad Airways achieved a profit after tax of AED 1.1 billion (around USD 306 million), which is a 32% increase compared to the same period last year. This growth is attributed to strong customer demand, operational efficiency, productivity improvements, and better revenue from both passenger and cargo services.

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Total revenue for the airline rose by 16% year-on-year. Passenger revenue increased by 16%, while cargo revenue grew by 9%. These figures reflect the strong performance across all areas of Etihad’s operations, including premium services, long-haul flights, and cargo transport.

Etihad’s financial health remained robust, with EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) increasing by 24% to AED 2.7 billion (approximately USD 739 million). The airline’s EBITDA margin also improved to 20%, showing a 1 percentage point increase compared to the previous year.

Passenger Growth and Milestones

Etihad carried 10.2 million passengers in the first half of 2025, marking a 17% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This growth was supported by a 14% increase in Available Seat Kilometers (ASK), which is a measure of airline capacity. The passenger load factor—the percentage of seats filled on flights—also improved to 87%, a 2 percentage point increase year-on-year.

In early July 2025, Etihad achieved another milestone by surpassing 20 million passengers carried over the previous 12 months. This figure is double the number of passengers carried in 2022, confirming Etihad’s position as one of the fastest-growing airlines in the region.

Fleet Expansion and Modernization

Etihad’s operating fleet exceeded 100 aircraft during the first half of 2025. The airline received its sixth Airbus A350 in April and reintroduced a seventh A380 in May. These deliveries were part of a broader strategy to expand and modernize the fleet.

In May 2025, Etihad also announced an order for 28 wide-body aircraft from Boeing. This move strengthens the airline’s long-term growth strategy and its ability to offer better connectivity to passengers around the world.

In July 2025, the airline added five new aircraft to its fleet, including its first A321LR. This marked the highest number of aircraft deliveries in a single month in Etihad’s history.

Introduction of A321LR and Premium Services

April 2025 also saw the launch of Etihad’s new A321LR product. This aircraft brings wide-body luxury services to narrow-body operations, a first in the region. The A321LR began flying in early August with its first flight to Phuket. Passengers on this aircraft can enjoy First Class suites and lie-flat Business Class seats even on medium-haul routes, giving travelers a premium experience.

Expansion of Destinations

With the fleet expansion and new routes, Etihad now serves almost 90 destinations as of June 2025. This includes both year-round and seasonal services. In 2025 alone, the airline launched or announced 27 new destinations. This expansion helps bring millions of visitors to Abu Dhabi and strengthens the city’s position as a global travel hub.

His Excellency Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of Etihad Airways, said, “With 27 new destinations launched or announced this year alone, Etihad is proud to help position Abu Dhabi as one of the most accessible and connected cities in the world. This growth strengthens point-to-point and stopover opportunities and enhances Abu Dhabi’s role as a gateway for millions of global travelers.”

Focus on Customer Satisfaction

Etihad Airways continues to prioritize customer satisfaction. The airline has recorded improvements across airport services, digital platforms, and in-flight experiences. Even while maintaining stable unit costs, Etihad has enhanced service quality to ensure passengers receive excellent value.

The airline’s First Class Net Promoter Score (NPS)—a measure of customer loyalty—has remained consistently at 80, the highest ever achieved by Etihad. This score is also considered a best-in-class performance in the global airline industry.

CEO Statement on Performance

Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said, “We are proud to deliver another record half-year for Etihad. Our strong financial performance and continued passenger growth demonstrate the success of our strategy and the dedication of our people. We are expanding sustainably, investing in premium experiences, and bringing record numbers of visitors to Abu Dhabi through our growing network.

“We are already ahead of the growth levels we set in our strategy. We remain focused on execution and are committed to expansion built on efficiency, service, and innovation. With new aircraft joining the fleet, new routes opening, and our premium offering flourishing, Etihad is setting new standards in aviation. None of this would be possible without the passion and professionalism of our employees, and I want to thank them for their outstanding contribution.”

Employee Growth and Engagement

Etihad’s record performance is powered by its employees. In the first half of 2025, the airline hired more than 1,700 new staff members, including over 100 pilots and 1,000 cabin crew. Additionally, over 1,100 employees were promoted internally across various departments.

Employee engagement reached the highest level in Etihad’s history, reflecting the professionalism, commitment, and passion of its team.

Neves added, “Finally, I want to thank our customers. We look forward to welcoming even more of you onboard in the months ahead.”

Etihad Airways’ first half of 2025 shows that the airline is not only growing financially but also enhancing the travel experience for its passengers. By expanding its fleet, launching new destinations, and investing in premium services, Etihad is strengthening Abu Dhabi’s role as a major international travel hub. The airline’s commitment to efficiency, innovation, and customer satisfaction is clear, and with its dedicated workforce, Etihad is set to continue its impressive growth for the rest of 2025 and beyond.