Etihad Airways recently released its traffic statistics for November 2024, showcasing its stellar performance so far this year. Year-to-date, the airline has welcomed approximately 17 million passengers, up more than 30 percent from the same period last year. In November alone, the airline welcomed 1.6 million guests, achieving a notable average passenger load factor of 88 percent.
“Our passenger numbers in November saw sustained growth compared to the same period last year, highlighting our ongoing positive flightpath and maintaining our position as the fastest growing Middle East airline,” stated Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways.
Etihad Airways fleet grows
Notably, Etihad Airways grew its operating fleet size from 83 aircraft in November last year to 97 last month. In addition, it increased its destinations from 67 to 71 by November 2024.
The airline also raised its passenger load factor from 83 percent to a remarkable 88 percent last month. “Our consistently high passenger load factor in November at 88 percent, in what is traditionally a challenging month for airlines, is a testament to our unwavering commitment to customer service and operational excellence,” added Neves.
With constant fleet and destination expansions, Etihad Airways reported a profit after tax of $368 million in the first 9 months of 2024, marking a notable increase from $222 million during the same timeframe in 2023. Total revenue surged by 21 percent to $5 billion in the first nine months of 2024, up from $4.1 billion in the previous year.
Passenger revenue also increased by 21 percent, reaching $4.1 billion, fueled by strategic network expansion and increased flight frequencies that improved connectivity. Over the first three quarters of the year, Etihad transported nearly 14 million passengers, representing a 35 percent year-over-year rise.
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Notable destination expansion
“Our exciting single-day announcement on 25 November, of 10 additional new destinations for 2025, underscores our dedication to positive and sustainable expansion. Etihad is committed to providing customers with the routes and frequencies they need while bringing hundreds of thousands more visitors to Abu Dhabi,” added Neves.
Last month, Etihad Airways launched over 10 new destinations all over the world, including Algiers, Atlanta, Hong Kong and Phnom Penh. The ten routes will complement Etihad’s previously revealed new destinations for 2025 including Prague, Warsaw, and Al Alamein.
Etihad’s expansion will bring tens of thousands of new visitors directly to Abu Dhabi, boosting its position as a premier destination for leisure, business, and cultural tourism. The move aligns with the UAE capital’s efforts to attract international travelers and reinforces its reputation as a hub of connectivity, innovation, and hospitality.
2025 will mark a pivotal year for Etihad Airways, with more than 90 destinations in over 50 countries and a fleet of more than 110 aircraft, including the new A321LRs. The airline expects to welcome over 20 million guests onboard next year, further supporting tourism growth in Abu Dhabi.
