Etihad Airways Records Strongest Year Ever in 2025 With 22.4 Million Passengers

Etihad Airways has closed 2025 on a historic high, recording the strongest performance in its history by carrying 22.4 million passengers over the year. The milestone reflects a 21 percent increase compared to 2024 and highlights the airline’s continued momentum as global travel demand rebounds and regional connectivity expands.

According to figures released by the Emirates News Agency, the airline also achieved a notable improvement in operational efficiency. Etihad’s passenger load factor rose to 88.3 percent for the year, up two percentage points from the previous year. The increase indicates consistently strong demand across the carrier’s growing network and more effective utilization of capacity.

December emerged as a particularly strong month, with Etihad transporting 2.2 million passengers. This marked a 28 percent increase compared to December 2024. The load factor for the month stood at 87.6 percent, reinforcing the trend of sustained demand during peak travel periods.

Fleet expansion played a central role in supporting Etihad’s record-breaking performance. During 2025, the airline expanded its operating fleet to 127 aircraft, adding 29 new planes over the year. This represents the largest single-year fleet expansion in Etihad’s history and reflects a strategic push to meet rising passenger numbers and open new routes.

Etihad Airways Chief Executive Officer Antonwaldo Nieves described 2025 as a defining year for the airline. He said the carrier had welcomed more than 22 million passengers, the highest annual figure it has ever recorded. He added that with the largest fleet in Etihad’s history now in service, the airline is well positioned to accommodate future growth and welcome even more travelers to Abu Dhabi.

Industry analysts view Etihad’s performance as a strong signal of confidence in the UAE’s aviation sector. The airline’s growth underscores Abu Dhabi’s expanding role as a global travel hub, supported by infrastructure investment, tourism initiatives and improved international connectivity.

The rise in passenger numbers also reflects Etihad’s focus on enhancing the customer experience, expanding route options and maintaining competitive service standards. By aligning fleet growth with demand trends, the airline has been able to scale operations while sustaining high load factors.

Etihad’s record year adds to broader signs of recovery and growth across the global aviation industry. As travel patterns stabilize and demand continues to rise, the airline’s performance positions it as a key player in connecting the UAE with major destinations worldwide.

With a larger fleet, strong demand indicators and a clear growth strategy, Etihad Airways appears set to build on its 2025 achievements and further strengthen its presence in international aviation.