Etihad Airways has reported traffic statistics for January 2026, showing a 29 per cent increase in passenger numbers compared with the same month in 2025.
The airline carried 2.2 million passengers in January, up from 1.7 million in January 2025. The carrier achieved a passenger load factor of 89.9 per cent for the month, compared with 89.1 per cent a year earlier.
Etihad’s operating fleet comprised 127 aircraft at the start of 2026, serving a network of 110 destinations worldwide.
Etihad Airways reports 29% passenger increase in January 2026 traffic statistics
The airline announced in January that it would launch services to Luxembourg and Calgary, marking the first time these cities will have a connection to Abu Dhabi.
“January has been a strong start to 2026. Demand is high, our product is resonating with customers, and the dedication of our teams is evident in every flight,” Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways said in a statement.
“Maintaining load factors above 89 per cent while growing capacity at this pace is something we are proud of. It reflects the strength of our network and Abu Dhabi’s growing appeal as both a destination and a gateway for travellers across the region and beyond. In January we announced new services to Luxembourg and Calgary – two cities that will, for the first time, have a direct connection to Abu Dhabi. That is what drives us: opening up new possibilities for our guests and bringing more of the world to this remarkable emirate,” he added.
Etihad Airways was formed in 2003 and operates as the national airline of the UAE. The carrier flies to passenger and cargo destinations in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America from its base in Abu Dhabi.
Through codeshare partnerships, Etihad’s network provides access to hundreds of destinations internationally. The airline has received awards for its service, products, cargo operations, and loyalty programme in recent years.
