The United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) flag carrier, Etihad Airways, achieved remarkable growth in both short- and long-haul flights in 2024. The airline increased its annual passenger numbers by over 30%, standing out with its operational efficiency and fleet performance.
35% Growth in Medium- and Long-Haul Flights
Etihad’s medium- and long-haul network (routes over 1,500 nautical miles) grew by 35% last year, serving 11.5 million passengers annually. The airline’s main revenue source in this segment came from approximately $3 billion in ticket sales, accounting for 88% of its total Available Seat Kilometres (ASK) distribution.
Key Markets:
- Middle East – Europe (37% ASK share)
- Middle East – Asia (34%)
- Middle East – North America (19%)
- Middle East – Oceania (7%)
- Middle East – Africa (2%)
Etihad competes in these regions with major carriers such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines.
Busiest Long-Haul Routes
Etihad’s highest-performing long-haul routes are:
- Abu Dhabi – Phuket: 7.2 MOXI score, 100% market share, 397,000 segment passengers
- Abu Dhabi – Bangkok: 7.1 MOXI score, 100% market share
- Abu Dhabi – Jakarta: 6.9 MOXI score, 100% market share
- Abu Dhabi – London: 6.5 MOXI score, 95% market share
However, weaker performance is noted on the Abu Dhabi – Paris route (56% market share, MOXI: 4.2) and Abu Dhabi – Rome route (66% market share).
Short-Haul Growth Led by Indian Routes
Etihad’s short-haul network carried 6 million passengers annually, recording a 32% growth. While this segment accounts for only 12% of total ASK, it generates approximately $500 million in annual revenue.
Busiest Short-Haul Routes:
- Abu Dhabi – Delhi: 85% market share, MOXI: 7.9
- Abu Dhabi – Mumbai: 58% market share, MOXI: 7.4
- Abu Dhabi – Cairo: 49% market share, MOXI: 6.8
- Abu Dhabi – Jeddah: 83% market share, MOXI: 6.8
- Abu Dhabi – Karachi: 100% market share, MOXI: 6.8
The India-UAE corridor remains Etihad’s strongest market in the short-haul segment.
Fleet Composition: Efficiency and Modernisation
Etihad’s fleet includes:
- Short-Haul: A320 (14 aircraft), A321 (9 aircraft), A321neo (6 aircraft + 20 on order)
- Long-Haul: Boeing 787-9 (33 aircraft), 787-10 (10 aircraft), A350-1000 (5 aircraft), A380 (10 aircraft), B777-300ER (9 aircraft)
Notably, the A380 fleet, which resumed service post-COVID, stands out with an 8.6 COFI score. Additionally, the completion of A321neo deliveries is expected to improve fuel efficiency on short-haul routes and maintain competitive strength.
Competition and Future Strategy
Etihad faces competition from low-cost carriers such as Air Arabia, IndiGo, and Wizz Air Abu Dhabi on short-haul routes, while competing with Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines on long-haul flights. The airline aims to increase market share through fleet expansion and strategic route management.
