Etihad Airways now operates 300 scheduled passenger flights per day, marking a 20% year-on-year increase in daily flights. The airline has positioned itself among the fastest-growing full-service carriers globally.
The 300 daily flights consist of scheduled passenger services, connecting Abu Dhabi with destinations worldwide.
“We are expanding the destinations we serve, the fleet we operate, and our talented workforce, all towards our goal of making Etihad the airline everyone wants to fly. This milestone reflects one of the fastest growth trajectories in the global airline industry, made possible by our people’s dedication and the trust of our guests. I would like to thank each of our guests who travelled on one of our 300 daily flights for being part of this remarkable journey,” Captain Majed Al Marzouqi, Chief Operations and Guest Officer at Etihad Airways, said.
“Year-on-year growth across all key metrics reflects the strength of our network and Abu Dhabi’s growing position as a global aviation hub. Our progress is efficient, sustainable and purposeful, driven by the dedication of our people and the continued trust of our guests. True to the meaning of our name, Etihad, which means union, we are committed to bringing people and possibilities closer together through seamless connectivity and world-class service,” Al Marzouqi added.
Etihad Airways flies 16.1 million passengers in first nine months of 2025
In September 2025, Etihad carried 1.9 million passengers, a 21% increase compared with September 2024. The airline maintained an 89% passenger load factor. In the first nine months of 2025, Etihad flew 16.1 million passengers, up 18% year-on-year.
The airline has maintained record levels of customer satisfaction, with a high Net Promoter Score. This performance is supported by enhancements to airport services, digital platforms and onboard products.
The airline’s network capacity rose by 25 per cent year-on-year in September. Etihad has launched or announced 31 destinations in 2025, including Medan in Sumatra, Phnom Penh in Cambodia, Addis Ababa in Ethiopia and Krabi in Thailand. The global network now reaches nearly 90 destinations. Flights across Europe increased by 35% this summer compared with last year.
Etihad’s operating fleet has grown to 115 aircraft, up from 96 in September 2024. This growth includes A350s, 787 Dreamliners, the return of two A380s, and A321LRs. The A321LRs feature private First Suites and lie-flat Business Class seats.
Etihad Airways hires 1,700 staff as airline expands to 300 daily flights
Etihad operates from Zayed International Airport, which has capacity for 45 million passengers per year and 65 gates. The airport’s biometric systems and processes allow passengers to move from kerb to gate in as little as 12 minutes.
Etihad welcomed 1,700 employees in the first half of 2025, including more than 100 pilots and 1,000 cabin crew. Over 1,100 employees were promoted across the business.
The airline launched its UAE National Talent Strategy to attract Emirati professionals across all areas. The strategy includes tracks for pilots, engineers, airport managers, and corporate talent, from graduates to MBA holders. Over the next five years, Etihad aims to double its Emirati workforce.
