Etihad Airways has kicked off 2025 with a stellar first quarter, achieving unprecedented financial success and customer satisfaction levels.
Building on the momentum from 2024, the airline has shown remarkable progress in revenue, operational efficiency, and fleet growth, solidifying its position as a leader in the aviation industry.
Etihad Airways Q1 2025 Performance
Unprecedented Financial Growth
Etihad reported a profit after tax of AED 685 million (£139 million), a 30% increase compared to the same period last year. This impressive growth was fueled by strong passenger demand and streamlined operations.
Total revenue climbed by 15% year-on-year, driven by robust performance in both passenger and cargo sectors.
Passenger revenue alone surged by 16%, reaching AED 5.5 billion (£1.12 billion), thanks to expanded capacity, new routes, and increased flight frequencies.
The airline’s operational efficiency also shone through, with EBITDA rising 32% to AED 1.4 billion (£284 million).
Despite a 4% drop in cargo volumes, improved cargo yield led to an 8% increase in cargo revenue, showcasing Etihad’s ability to adapt and optimize across its operations.
Leading the Region in Passenger Growth
Etihad carried 5.0 million passengers in Q1 2025, a 16% increase from the previous year, maintaining its status as the fastest-growing airline in the region.
Over the past 12 months, the airline welcomed nearly 20 million passengers. This marks it as the fastest growing airline in the region.
It also saw an improved passenger load factor of 87% (up 1 percentage point from last year). With 80 destinations served as of March 2025 and 16 new routes planned for the year, Etihad continues to expand its global reach.
Customer Satisfaction – An All-time High
The airline’s customer satisfactionevel reached an all-time high in Q1 2025, with scores improving by 20% year-on-year. Enhancements were made across key touchpoints, including check-in, boarding, inflight service, dining, Wi-Fi, and the airline’s revamped website and mobile app.
New lounge and inflight menus were introduced, alongside upgraded service standards, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey for passengers.
Etihad also rolled out innovative premium offerings. In April, the airline debuted its A321LR cabin, becoming the first in the region to offer First Class on a single-aisle aircraft.
This cabin features exclusive private First suites and lie-flat Business seats, bringing widebody comfort to medium-haul routes.
Starting in August, Etihad’s enhanced First Class experience will include a concierge service, private chauffeur transfers, dedicated check-in, meet-and-assist services, and baggage-free travel options in Abu Dhabi.
Fleet Expansion
To support its growing passenger base, Etihad expanded its fleet to 98 aircraft by the end of Q1. This included the return of its sixth A380, offering luxurious First Apartments and The Residence.
In April, a new Airbus A350-1000 joined the fleet, with a Boeing 787 Dreamliner set to follow. These aircraft feature ultra-high-speed Wi-Fi and upgraded inflight entertainment systems, ensuring a modern and connected travel experience.
Antonoaldo Neves, Etihad’s Chief Executive Officer, expressed pride in the airline’s achievements. “Our record-breaking Q1 profit of AED 685 million and best-ever customer satisfaction scores reflect the strength of our business and our team’s dedication.”
“We’re focused on sustainable growth, operational efficiency, and delivering exceptional experiences for our guests. From our innovative A321LR cabin to expanded routes and improved services, we’re setting a new standard for travel.”
The airline has 16 new routes announced for 2025 and additional aircraft joining the fleet. Etihad is poised for continued growth while maintaining a sharp focus on quality and efficiency. This disciplined approach ensures value for both customers and stakeholders.
Looking Ahead
Etihad Airways’ Q1 2025 performance continues the airline’s consistent track record. It characteristically shows a financial discipline matched with a customer-centric approach.
The airline is not only achieving record-breaking results but also redefining what it means to travel in style.
