Etihad’s record growth powers Abu Dhabi’s global hub ambitions

Etihad Airways has reported its best-ever nine-month performance, posting a net profit of AED 1.7 billion ($463 million) - up 26% year-on-year - and achieving record levels across passengers, revenue, and operational efficiency.

The airline carried 16.1 million passengers between January and September 2025, an 18% jump from last year, supported by a 17% increase in capacity and a load factor of 88%. Total revenue surged 18% to AED 21.7 billion ($5.9 billion), with strong performance in both passenger and cargo segments.

Operating cash flow rose more than 40% to nearly AED 6 billion, while EBITDA climbed 27%, reaching AED 4.3 billion.

“We’re outperforming the market and elevating guest experience while staying laser-focused on efficiency,” said CEO Antonoaldo Neves, crediting the team and Abu Dhabi’s global appeal.

Etihad’s fleet hit 115 aircraft, including the debut of the A321LR—bringing luxury wide-body features to narrow-body routes. The airline now operates nearly 300 flights daily across 100+ destinations, with new routes to Atlanta, Al Alamein, Krakow, and Salalah.

Etihad also strengthened its cargo operations, customer satisfaction reached record highs, and the airline was named a Five-Star Global Airline for 2026 by APEX.

With 2,600+ new hires this year and 31 new destinations launched or announced, Etihad continues its mission to make Abu Dhabi a global aviation hub.