Etihad Airways has achieved a remarkable feat, now operating 300 scheduled passenger flights each day. This marks a growth of over 20 percent compared to the previous year, solidifying its status as one of the fastest-growing full-service airlines globally.
This accomplishment showcases the airline’s robust operational efficiency, network development, and ongoing demand for air travel, as reported by WAM.
Read more – Etihad Airways sees an 18% increase in passenger numbers during the first nine months of 2025
“We are broadening our destinations, expanding our fleet, and enhancing our skilled workforce as we strive to make Etihad the preferred airline for travelers,” stated Captain Majed Al Marzouqi, Chief Operations and Guest Officer at Etihad Airways. “This milestone was achieved through the dedication of our staff and the trust of our customers.”
In September 2025, Etihad transported 1.9 million passengers, reflecting a 21 percent increase from the same month last year, while maintaining a high load factor of 89 percent. Over the first nine months of 2025, the airline served 16.1 million passengers, marking an 18 percent year-on-year growth.
This year, Etihad has either launched or announced 31 new routes, including Medan, Phnom Penh, Addis Ababa, and Krabi, bringing its global network to nearly 90 destinations.
Modern infrastructure and expanding workforce fuel success
The airline’s fleet has grown to 115 aircraft, up from 96 in September 2024. Recent additions feature new Airbus A350s, Boeing 787 Dreamliners, A380s, and A321LRs, all providing upgraded cabin experiences with private First Suites and lie-flat Business Class seating.
Supporting this growth is the new Zayed International Airport, which boasts advanced biometric systems that enable seamless movement from curb to gate in just 12 minutes. With an annual capacity of 45 million passengers, the airport is a vital component of Etihad’s growth strategy.
In the first half of 2025, Etihad onboarded 1,700 new employees and promoted over 1,100 staff across various sectors. Its UAE National Talent Strategy, initiated earlier this year, aims to double the Emirati workforce within five years, emphasizing the airline’s commitment to fostering local talent and Abu Dhabi’s emergence as a global aviation center.