Etihad Airways Soars to New Heights

Etihad Airways Makes History: Record Earnings in First Nine Months

Etihad Airways, the flagship airline of Abu Dhabi, has reached another milestone by achieving its highest profits ever during the first nine months of 2025. The significance of these results goes beyond numbers, marking a transformation in the airline's strategic development and its role in the global aviation market. The 1.7 billion dirham profit (approximately 463 million US dollars) achieved over nine months is clear evidence that Etihad has entered a new era: an era of sustainable growth and efficiency.

Historic Record in Passenger Numbers

In the first nine months of 2025, Etihad carried a total of 16.1 million passengers, surpassing all previous records. This represents an 18% increase compared to the same period last year, supported by a 17% capacity increase and an 88% load factor. The 88% load factor means that the vast majority of the seating capacity on flights was utilized – this is especially important during a time when the aviation market is gradually recovering from past global crises.

Financial Stability and Growth

Etihad Airways' profits grew by 26% compared to the same period in 2024, while revenue reached 21.7 billion dirhams, an 18% increase. Revenue from passenger transport alone grew by 20%, while the cargo segment also expanded by 8%. This latter point is particularly interesting in the midst of global supply chain transformations, where air freight has returned as an important player.

In terms of operational results, EBITDA showed a 27% increase, reaching 4.3 billion dirhams, representing a 20% EBITDA margin. This is not only outstanding from a financial perspective, but also shows that the airline is able to operate efficiently while expanding.

Strong Cash Generation and Liquidity

Etihad achieved nearly 6 billion dirhams in operating cash flow, a more than 40% increase compared to the previous year. This is particularly important in an industry where capital-intensive operations and external environmental factors (such as fuel prices or geopolitical risks) continually pressure airlines. Such a level of cash generation ensures stability and provides further investment opportunities for the company.

Customer Experience and Technological Innovations

Throughout 2025, Etihad continually increased its customer satisfaction metrics, particularly in premium cabins. The Net Promoter Score (NPS) – which measures passenger loyalty and satisfaction – improved across all classes, reaching a historic high in the premium segment. The introduction of new Airbus A321LR aircraft also proved highly successful among passengers, thanks to more comfortable cabins and modern onboard services. These narrow-body aircraft elevate the experience of shorter trips to a new level, especially on regional flights.

Strategic Significance for the UAE

Etihad's performance represents not only a corporate breakthrough but is significant nationwide: the airline accounts for nearly half of the increase in passenger numbers registered in the UAE. This shows that Etihad is not merely a national airline but is a key element of the country's economic and tourism strategy.

The development of the aviation sector is crucial for strengthening Abu Dhabi's global role. Etihad's new achievements contribute to making the city and the emirate a competitive alternative alongside Dubai, particularly in the field of business travel and international relations.

Efficiency and Growth Hand in Hand

Behind the numbers lies a well-thought-out and efficient operational model. The increase in capacity, the introduction of a new fleet, and the enhancement of services were achieved while improving cost efficiency. Thus, the airline not only managed to grow but did so sustainably. This is particularly important in the current aviation competition, where price-sensitive markets and rapidly changing travel habits pose significant challenges.

Looking Ahead: What Comes Next?

Etihad Airways' current results could lay new foundations for the airline's future. The question is no longer whether it can operate competitively, but which new markets it can enter, what further technological innovations it will introduce, and how it will leverage Abu Dhabi's global position.

The anticipated new long-haul flights, further enhancement of premium services, and the digitization of cargo transport could all contribute to Etihad increasing its share in the global market. Moreover, sustainability efforts – such as the use of biofuels and carbon footprint reduction – may also come to the forefront in the upcoming period.

Summary

The results of Etihad Airways in the first nine months of 2025 are not just a financial success story, but an exemplary transformation as well. The airline was able to grow, operate efficiently, and improve passenger experience simultaneously. It plays a key role in strengthening Abu Dhabi's global presence, and all signs suggest that it aims for even greater heights in the future.

(Source of the article: Etihad Airways press release.)