Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways carried 22.4 million passengers in 2025, recording a 21 per cent increase compared to the previous year and reaching the highest annual passenger number in the company’s history. It was stated that the strong growth in passenger traffic was driven by sustained demand across the global network and disciplined capacity growth.
The national airline of the United Arab Emirates increased its passenger load factor by two percentage points throughout 2025, reaching 88.3 per cent. This figure stood out as one of the key indicators reflecting Etihad’s strong commercial performance over the year.
Record Traffic in December
Etihad Airways carried 2.2 million passengers in December 2025 alone. This figure represented a 28 per cent increase compared to the same month in 2024, while the passenger load factor reached 87.6 per cent during the busy year-end travel period.
The company emphasised that its growth in 2025 accounted for approximately half of the total passenger increase across the United Arab Emirates, highlighting Etihad’s contribution to Abu Dhabi’s tourism and economic objectives.
USD 10 Billion Fleet and Growth Investment
Among the airlines that benefited most from the post-pandemic recovery in the global aviation sector, Etihad has rapidly expanded its routes, added new aircraft to its fleet and increased employment over the past four years.
Etihad CEO Antonoaldo Neves stated that the company plans to invest approximately USD 10 billion in new aircraft over the next five years and will continue to hire 2,500 new employees each year.
Speaking at a panel held as part of Abu Dhabi Finance Week, Neves said: “In just three years, we have doubled the scale of the airline. We announced 31 new destinations. We have moved from being an airline ranked at the very bottom in terms of profitability to a much stronger position today.”
Largest Fleet Expansion in History
By the end of 2025, Etihad’s operating fleet reached 127 aircraft, including 29 new aircraft delivered during the year. This was recorded as the largest single-year fleet expansion in the company’s history.
As part of its growth, Airbus A321LR aircraft were introduced into service, while Etihad’s premium cabin products were extended to short- and medium-haul destinations. In 2025, the airline added 16 new routes, increasing the number of destinations served to 110.
Neves said: “Closing 2025 with a record December is a clear indication of our guests’ confidence in our products and services. As we enter 2026, we remain committed to safety, customer experience and sustainable growth.”
