ABU DHABI — Etihad Airways has achieved a significant milestone in its ongoing expansion, now operating 300 scheduled passenger flights per day. This record marks one of the most impressive growth surges in the airline’s history, with a 20% year-on-year increase in daily flights throughout 2025.
The achievement reinforces Etihad’s position as one of the fastest-growing full-service airlines in the world, reflecting strong operational performance, increasing passenger demand, and the airline’s continued network expansion.
Connecting the World Through Abu Dhabi
All 300 daily flights are scheduled passenger services, emphasizing Etihad’s commitment to connecting people, cultures, and economies while enhancing Abu Dhabi’s role as a leading global aviation hub.
Captain Majed Al Marzouqi, Chief Operations and Guest Officer at Etihad Airways, said:
“We are expanding the destinations we serve, the fleet we operate, and our talented workforce, all toward 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.”
He added:
“Our progress is efficient, sustainable, and purposeful. True to the meaning of our name — Etihad, meaning union — we are committed to bringing people and possibilities closer together through seamless connectivity and world-class service.”
Expanding in Every Dimension
Etihad’s growth spans its operations, route network, and guest experience.
In September 2025, the airline carried 1.9 million passengers, a 21% increase compared with the same month last year, maintaining an impressive 89% passenger load factor.
During the first nine months of 2025, Etihad served 16.1 million passengers, up 18% year-on-year, reflecting sustained global demand and strategic capacity deployment.
The airline has also maintained record customer satisfaction levels, with one of the highest Net Promoter Scores (NPS) in its history — proof that rapid growth and exceptional service can coexist.
Etihad continues to enhance the guest journey, improving airport services, digital platforms, and onboard experiences to ensure world-class hospitality at every touchpoint.
Network and Fleet Expansion
The 300 daily flights milestone is fueled by one of Etihad’s most ambitious years of expansion.
In September 2025, the airline’s network capacity rose by 25% year-on-year, supported by fleet growth and 31 new destinations launched or announced during the year — including Medan (Indonesia), Phnom Penh (Cambodia), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), and Krabi (Thailand).
Etihad’s global network now spans nearly 90 destinations worldwide.
European markets have been particularly strong, with flights across the continent up 35% compared with summer 2024.
Etihad’s fleet has expanded from 96 aircraft in 2024 to 115 in 2025, incorporating A350s, 787 Dreamliners, new A321LRs, and the return of two A380s.
The A321LRs feature private First Suites and lie-flat Business Class seats, setting a new benchmark for premium narrow-body travel on medium-haul routes.
Zayed International Airport: Etihad’s Gateway to Growth
Etihad’s expansion is supported by its new home at Zayed International Airport (ZIA) — a state-of-the-art facility designed for scale, comfort, and efficiency.
With capacity for 45 million passengers annually and 65 gates, ZIA allows travelers to move from curb to gate in as little as 12 minutes using advanced biometric systems and streamlined processing.
Luxury lounges, premium check-in areas, and modern retail spaces make ZIA a seamless gateway to Etihad’s global network.
Powered by People
Etihad’s record growth is powered by its diverse and skilled workforce.
In the first half of 2025, the airline welcomed 1,700 new employees, including over 100 pilots and 1,000 cabin crew, while 1,100 existing employees were promoted.
Earlier this year, Etihad launched its UAE National Talent Strategy, aimed at attracting and developing Emirati professionals across all disciplines — from pilots and engineers to airport managers and corporate leaders.
Over the next five years, Etihad plans to double its Emirati workforce, strengthening its position as a national champion and global airline leader.
