Etihad Airways revealed on Thursday that it carried 1.7 million passengers in May 2025, marking a 19 percent increase compared to the same month last year as it continues its expansion and sees strong customer demand.
This continued growth reflects the airline’s strategic expansion and strong market positioning. The May report revealed that passenger load factor climbed to 87 percent, up from 84 percent in May 2024, reinforcing Etihad’s ability to optimize capacity while maintaining high demand.
“We saw a pleasing continued growth in our momentum, with May’s passenger numbers growing by 19 percent year-on-year, underlining our position as the fastest-growing Middle East airline. Our year-to-date results show more than 8 million customers have flown with us in 2025, and our rolling 12-month figure now stands at almost 20 million, a testament to the trust placed in Etihad’s service,” said Antonoaldo Neves, Etihad Airways CEO.
Operating fleet hits 100 aircraft milestone
Etihad Airways’ operating fleet now stands at 100 aircraft, supporting its growing network and service enhancements. In the first five months of 2025, 8.4 million travelers have flown with the airline, a 17 percent rise from the same period in 2024, with the airline maintaining an impressive 87 percent average passenger load factor.
“We reached an exciting milestone in May as our fleet number reached the 100 mark. As we continue expanding our route network and growing our fleet in the coming months, our focus remains on delivering a seamless and exceptional customer experience,” added Neves.
This strong passenger traffic growth is also evident in the airline’s financial results. In the first quarter of 2025, Etihad Airways delivered record-breaking financial performance and the highest-ever customer satisfaction performance. The airline’s profit after tax reached AED685 million, marking a 30 percent increase year-on-year, driven by robust passenger demand and operational efficiencies.
Total revenue saw a 15 percent rise compared to Q1 2024, supported by both passenger and cargo business.
“We’re executing a clear strategy: grow sustainably, operate efficiently, and never lose focus on delivering remarkable experiences to our guests. From continued refinements to our onboard offering to improved airport services and the debut of our A321LR with a market-leading narrowbody product, we’re raising the bar in every part of the journey,” added Neves.
New routes, fleet expansion to drive growth
Neves added that the network continues to expand with 16 new routes announced for 2025 and additional aircraft joining the fleet. Last month, Etihad Airways confirmed an order for 28 wide-body Boeing aircraft. Since 2023, the airline has steadily grown its fleet as part of a long-term strategy to double in size by 2030. This reflects Etihad’s ongoing approach to aligning its fleet with evolving network and operational needs.
The agreement includes a mix of Boeing 787 and 777X aircraft, powered by GE engines and supported by a services package. These aircraft are expected to join the fleet from 2028 onwards and will support Etihad’s existing plans for growth in connectivity, operational efficiency and guest experience.
Etihad is currently finalizing a detailed plan that will shape the airline’s strategy through to 2035. The additional Boeing aircraft will form part of that evolving roadmap, ensuring the airline is well-positioned to deliver extraordinary customer experiences and to remain financially self-sustainable.
