Etihad Airways reported on Wednesday continued growth in passenger volumes and network expansion. In July, the airline carried 2 million passengers, a 19 percent increase compared to July 2024, when the airline flew 1.7 million guests.
The passenger load factor rose to 90 percent, up from 89 percent in the same month last year, reflecting strong demand and efficient capacity management.
“We continue to see strong momentum in our performance, with passenger numbers in July growing by 19 percent year-on-year. Our rolling 12-month total has surpassed 20 million for the first time in our history, reflecting the trust our customers place in our service and the strength of our network,” said Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways.
Etihad’s operating fleet expands to 111 aircraft
Etihad Airways’ operating fleet now stands at 111 aircraft, supporting a growing network of 81 passenger destinations, up from 76 a year earlier. These figures underscore the airline’s ongoing investment in fleet and route development.
“Our fleet expansion continues with the notable arrival of our first A321LR. July was a record month, with five new aircraft joining Etihad, including two Boeing 787s, an Airbus A350-1000, an A320, alongside the inaugural A321LR. These additions reflect our commitment to growth and boosting capacity across our global network,” added Neves.
Etihad Airways welcomed 12.2 million passengers year-to-date, a 17 percent increase over the same period in 2024. The average passenger load factor for 2025 so far is 88 percent, compared to 86 percent in the previous year. The airline’s rolling 12-month total has reached 20.3 million passengers, further solidifying its position among the region’s fastest-growing carriers.
Etihad Airways targets 21.5 million passengers in 2025
Etihad Airways aims to carry approximately 21.5 million passengers by the end of the year, more than double the number recorded in 2022. The airline’s CEO said the growth is underpinned by a major fleet expansion, with 18 new aircraft expected to be delivered before the year ends.
Two aircraft have already joined the fleet, with 16 more scheduled for delivery in the coming months. Having transported more than 10 million passengers during the first half of the year, the airline is on track to close 2025 with a fleet of between 115 and 120 aircraft.
On its global network, which is approaching 100 destinations, Neves recently explained that the airline’s growth strategy is not limited to adding new routes, but also includes increasing frequencies on existing routes. Flights to destinations such as Frankfurt and Barcelona have doubled to twice daily, while Bangkok now receives five daily flights during peak periods.
Etihad Airways’ CEO noted that around two-thirds of the increased capacity is allocated to existing destinations, with only one-third targeting new routes, highlighting the airline’s focus on strengthening its market position in established regions.
