UAE’s Etihad Airways posts...

Abu Dhabi-based carrier reports 30% first-quarter surge to AED686 million

Etihad Airways, the UAE’s national airline based in Abu Dhabi, has seen profits, passenger numbers and customer satisfaction reach record highs in the first quarter of 2025.

Profit surged 30% to reach a record US$187 million (AED686 million), passenger numbers topped 5 million, up 16% and revenue rose 15% compared to Q1 2024. Customer satisfaction was also up 20% year-on-year.

In February, Etihad reported record profits for 2024 of US$476 million. Passenger numbers soared sharply, rising 32% to 18.5 million and total revenue rose 25% to US$6.9 billion.

This is the latest record-breaking performance from airlines in the Middle East, with Qatar Airways Group recently posting profits of US$2.15 billion, up 28%, and Dubai-based Emirates Group's profits surging 20% to US$5.8 billion, becoming the world’s most profitable airline. Air Arabia also saw its profits soar by 34% in the first quarter, reaching US$91 million.

Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways said the airline was executing a clear strategy, to grow sustainably, operate efficiently and "never lose focus on delivering remarkable experiences to our guests".

With almost 7 million guests flown in the first four months alone, the airline is on track to carry more than 21 million guests in 2025, "more than ever before in our history".

Neves added that 16 new routes have so far been unveiled for 2025, including the recent launch of flights to Charlotte, marking the airline's sixth service to the US, and more aircraft are being added to Etihad’s fleet. That includes an Airbus A380 returning to service during the first quarter and the delivery of an A350-1000, with a Boeing 787 Dreamliner to follow.

In April, Etihad introduced its A321LR cabin, making it the first airline in the region to offer First Class on a single-aisle aircraft.

For more information, visit www.etihad.com

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