Home » AIRLINE NEWS » Etihad Airways Sets New Benchmark for Excellence in 2025, Delivering Record-Breaking Revenue Growth and Expanding Its Global Reach with Unmatched Operational Efficiency and Customer Satisfaction
Published on
November 17, 2025
In 2025, Etihad Airways has achieved a remarkable milestone, setting a new benchmark for excellence in the aviation industry by delivering record-breaking revenue growth and expanding its global reach. This impressive performance is a direct result of the airline’s unwavering focus on operational efficiency, exceptional customer satisfaction, and strategic network expansion. With an 18 percent year-on-year revenue surge, a significant increase in passenger traffic, and the addition of new destinations and aircraft, Etihad has successfully positioned itself as a leader in the competitive airline sector, further enhancing its reputation as a global aviation powerhouse.
Etihad Airways Reports Record-Breaking Nine-Month Performance in 2025, Achieving Impressive Growth Across All Business Segments
Etihad Airways has marked a remarkable achievement in 2025, reporting its best-ever nine-month results, showcasing impressive growth across all key business areas. The airline’s continued success is a clear reflection of its commitment to operational excellence, customer satisfaction, and strategic expansion, cementing its place as a leader in the global aviation industry.
For the first nine months of 2025, Etihad’s total revenue soared by 18 percent year-on-year, reaching AED 21.7 billion (USD 5.9 billion). This surge was driven by robust performance in both the passenger and cargo segments. Passenger revenue alone increased by 20 percent to AED 18.2 billion (USD 4.9 billion), a direct result of higher capacity and an expanded network. Meanwhile, the cargo segment grew by 8 percent, bringing in AED 3.2 billion (USD 875 million), supported by a 6 percent rise in volumes and improved capacity management.
Etihad’s operational performance remained strong, with earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) rising by 27 percent to AED 4.3 billion (USD 1.2 billion). This resulted in an improved EBITDA margin of 20 percent, a 1 percentage point increase compared to the same period last year. Furthermore, the airline’s cash generation was exceptionally strong, with operating cash flow reaching nearly AED 6 billion (USD 1.5 billion), reflecting a growth of over 40 percent from the previous year.
In terms of passenger traffic, Etihad achieved a new milestone, carrying 16.1 million passengers in the first nine months of 2025, representing an 18 percent increase year-on-year. This growth was supported by a 17 percent increase in capacity and a high load factor of 88 percent, up by 1 percentage point compared to the same period in 2024. The airline’s continuous focus on customer satisfaction was reflected in its impressive Net Promoter Scores (NPS), which improved across all cabins, setting new record levels, particularly in the premium categories.
The introduction of Etihad’s new Airbus A321LR fleet has further enhanced passenger comfort and service, setting a new standard for narrow-body aircraft. These upgrades have been well-received by passengers and have contributed to the airline’s increasing customer satisfaction. The airline’s ability to maintain high satisfaction levels while expanding its services demonstrates its commitment to offering a superior travel experience.
Etihad continued to expand its fleet in 2025, adding 19 new aircraft, bringing its total fleet to 115 by the end of September. This expansion included the introduction of several new aircraft types, such as the Airbus A321LR, Boeing 787s, Airbus A350s, and an additional A320. As a result, the airline saw a more than 20 percent year-on-year increase in Available Seat Kilometres (ASK) for the third quarter, further strengthening its capacity to meet growing demand. Etihad also celebrated a significant milestone in September, carrying 20 million passengers on a rolling 12-month basis for the first time in its history.
With a growing fleet and an expanded network, Etihad is now operating nearly 300 daily passenger flights, serving over 100 destinations globally. By the end of September, 91 destinations were actively served, with new routes launched to Atlanta and Al Alamein. The airline also plans to expand to Salalah, Kazan, and Krakow in the near future, further extending its reach into the Middle East, Europe, and Central Asia. In Europe alone, Etihad increased its seat capacity by more than 500,000 in 2025, demonstrating its critical role in supporting the growth of Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector.
Over the past year, Etihad has also introduced or announced 31 new destinations, solidifying its role as a major global connector. This expansion aligns with the airline’s strategy to support global tourism, particularly in Abu Dhabi, which is seeing a growing influx of international visitors.
In addition to network growth, Etihad strengthened its partnerships, including the launch of a new loyalty program in collaboration with Vietnam Airlines and an expanded cargo partnership with Atlas Air. These strategic alliances are expected to further enhance the airline’s operational capabilities and customer offerings, benefiting both passengers and freight clients alike.
Etihad’s success can also be attributed to its dedicated workforce, which continues to drive the airline’s growth. In 2025, the airline welcomed over 2,600 new employees, including more than 200 pilots and 1,500 cabin crew members. This influx of talent reflects the rapid expansion of Etihad’s fleet and network. Furthermore, the company promoted over 1,500 employees, recognizing strong leadership and exceptional performance across the organization.
Etihad Airways has set a new industry benchmark in 2025, achieving record-breaking revenue growth and expanding its global reach. This success is driven by exceptional operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and strategic network expansion.
As Etihad Airways looks ahead, its strategic focus on expansion, operational efficiency, and exceptional customer service will continue to drive its success. With an ever-expanding fleet, a growing network, and an unwavering commitment to meeting the needs of its passengers, Etihad is poised to achieve even greater success in the coming years, solidifying its position as a key player in the global aviation industry.
