ABU DHABI, October 20, 2025: Etihad Airways has reached a significant operational milestone, now operating 300 scheduled passenger flights daily, representing a more than 20 percent increase compared to the previous year. The achievement marks one of the highest growth rates among full-service carriers globally and reflects the airline’s expansion in network, fleet, and workforce. The announcement was made by the airline on October 20, confirming that the 300-flight benchmark includes a broad mix of short, medium, and long-haul services.
Etihad’s growth in 2025 highlights strong demand for long-haul and regional flights. (Credit – Etihad)
Etihad carried 1.9 million passengers in September 2025, a 21 percent increase over the same period last year, while maintaining a load factor of 89 percent. In the first nine months of the year, the airline transported 16.1 million passengers, representing an 18 percent rise compared with the same period in 2024. Etihad’s current network spans nearly 90 destinations, with 31 new routes launched or announced in 2025.
Recent additions include Medan in Indonesia, Phnom Penh in Cambodia, Addis Ababa in Ethiopia, and Krabi in Thailand. The carrier attributes the expanded network to robust demand and its ability to rapidly scale operations. The airline’s fleet has grown from 96 aircraft in September 2024 to 115 in October 2025. Recent acquisitions include Airbus A350s, Boeing 787 Dreamliners, A380s, and Airbus A321LRs.
New destinations drive passenger growth in 2025
The fleet expansion supports increased frequency on existing routes and the introduction of new destinations. Several aircraft feature upgraded cabins, including private First Suites and fully lie-flat Business Class seats. Etihad continues to operate from Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi, which offers infrastructure designed to handle up to 45 million passengers annually. The facility features 65 gates and biometric systems that enable kerb-to-gate passenger movement in approximately 12 minutes.
The airport’s capacity and advanced passenger handling systems are playing a key role in supporting the airline’s growth. Captain Majed Al Marzouqi, Chief Operations and Guest Officer at Etihad Airways, said the milestone reflects the airline’s operational progress and growing customer base. “This achievement is the result of our team’s hard work and the continued trust of our guests,” he said.
Airline continues passenger momentum in 2025
Etihad has also expanded its workforce significantly. In the first half of 2025, it hired 1,700 new employees, including over 100 pilots and more than 1,000 cabin crew. Additionally, more than 1,100 staff members were promoted across various departments. The airline’s UAE National Talent Strategy, launched in early 2025, aims to double the number of Emirati employees within five years. This initiative supports national workforce development and aligns with the broader objectives of the UAE’s aviation sector. – By Content Syndication Services.