Etihad Airways has reached a major milestone—300 scheduled passenger flights per day, the highest in its history. The airline’s rapid growth highlights a strong recovery in air travel and rising global demand, marking a record year for the UAE aviation industry.
Record Growth and Global Reach
Operating 300 daily flights, Etihad now serves almost 90 destinations across the globe. Its fleet has expanded to 115 aircraft, including Airbus A350s, Boeing 787 Dreamliners, and A380s. The airline has added or announced 31 new destinations in 2025, including cities in Asia, Europe, and Africa.
This expansion reflects more than just new routes—it shows the airline’s steady climb as one of the fastest-growing full-service carriers in the world.
Captain Majed Al Marzouqi, Chief Operations and Guest Officer at Etihad Airways, said the milestone demonstrates the airline’s dedication to connecting people and cultures. He credited the achievement to the commitment of Etihad’s employees and the trust of millions of passengers who fly with the airline each year.
Passenger Growth and Performance
Etihad carried 1.9 million passengers in September 2025, a 21% rise compared with the same period last year. The airline also maintained a strong 89% passenger load factor, showing high aircraft utilization and strong market demand.
From January to September 2025, Etihad transported over 16 million passengers, marking an 18% year-on-year increase. These numbers underline its effective network strategy and continued focus on efficiency.
Strengthening Abu Dhabi as a Global Hub
Etihad’s success also reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a key aviation hub. Operating from the new Zayed International Airport (ZIA), the airline benefits from state-of-the-art infrastructure designed for scale and speed. The airport can handle 45 million passengers a year, featuring advanced biometric systems and a smooth travel process from check-in to boarding in under 15 minutes.
These improvements make travel easier while supporting Etihad’s operational efficiency as it continues to grow internationally.
Focus on Guest Experience
Even as it expands, Etihad continues to invest in passenger experience. The airline maintains a high customer satisfaction rate and an impressive Net Promoter Score. Upgrades to lounges, in-flight services, and digital platforms ensure that every passenger journey meets premium standards.
The introduction of A321LR aircraft featuring private First Suites and lie-flat Business Class seats has raised the bar for comfort on medium-haul routes. This focus on quality, even during rapid expansion, sets Etihad apart from competitors.
People Behind the Progress
Etihad’s growth is driven by its workforce. In the first half of 2025 alone, the airline hired 1,700 new employees, including over 100 pilots and 1,000 cabin crew members.
The company also launched its UAE National Talent Strategy to attract Emirati professionals across aviation fields such as engineering, flight operations, and management. Over the next five years, Etihad aims to double its Emirati workforce, ensuring that nationals play a key role in shaping the airline’s future.
A Strong Year Ahead
With 300 daily flights, 90 destinations, and millions of passengers served, Etihad Airways is setting new records in global aviation. Its strategic expansion, modern fleet, and service excellence continue to strengthen the UAE aviation industry and Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a global air transport hub.
As travel demand continues to rise, Etihad’s momentum shows no signs of slowing. The airline’s focus on growth, sustainability, and customer satisfaction positions it among the world’s leading carriers—proving that its best days are still ahead.
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