Etihad Airways Reports AED 685 Million Profit in Q1

Etihad Airways has kicked off 2025 on a high note, reporting a record first-quarter profit of AED 685 million (USD 187 million), a 30% jump compared to the same period last year. The strong performance is powered by surging travel demand, ongoing efficiency improvements, and Etihad’s continued investment in customer experience.

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Alongside this financial high, customer satisfaction also reached an all-time record, growing 20% year-on-year. The airline credits upgrades across the entire journey, from smoother airport experiences to revamped onboard menus, improved digital platforms, and high-speed Wi-Fi on new aircraft.

Passenger Numbers Soar

Etihad carried 5.0 million passengers in Q1 2025, a 16% rise compared to the same quarter in 2024. The airline’s passenger load factor also edged up to 87%, showing strong demand across its expanding network. With nearly 20 million passengers flown in the past 12 months, Etihad is now one of the fastest-growing airlines in the region.

The airline currently operates 80 destinations and has announced 16 new routes for 2025, further expanding its global reach.

Customer Experience Hits New Highs

Etihad’s customer satisfaction scores rose 20% year-on-year, with improvements seen across check-in, boarding, inflight service, dining, Wi-Fi, and digital tools. New inflight menus, upgraded lounges, and refreshed service standards have all played a role in boosting guest experience.

In a regional first, Etihad introduced First Class on its new A321LR narrowbody aircraft, bringing lie-flat Business seats and private First suites to medium-haul routes. The airline is also rolling out premium services including dedicated First Class check-in, concierge support, chauffeur transfers, and a baggage-free travel option in Abu Dhabi.

Fleet Expansion and New Aircraft

Etihad’s fleet continues to grow in both size and quality. The airline added a sixth Airbus A380 in Q1, bringing back its signature First Apartments and The Residence. It also took delivery of a new A350-1000 in April and expects another Boeing 787 Dreamliner soon.

By the end of March 2025, Etihad had 98 aircraft in operation. These new jets feature the latest inflight entertainment systems and ultra-fast Wi-Fi, helping to raise the bar in guest comfort and connectivity.

Financial Highlights

• Profit after tax reached AED 685 million, up 30% YoY
• Passenger revenue hit AED 5.5 billion, up 16%
• Total revenue climbed to AED 6.6 billion, a 15% increase
• EBITDA surged to AED 1.4 billion (+32%), with a margin of 21%
• Net leverage improved from 1.9x to 1.1x
• Operating cash flow reached AED 1.8 billion, up 11%
• Cargo revenue also saw an 8% year-on-year increase, thanks to improved yields, even though volumes were down 4%.

Looking Ahead

Etihad’s growth strategy is clearly paying off. With a sharp focus on operational efficiency, customer experience, and network expansion, the airline is positioning itself as a major global player.

“We are proud to deliver a record-breaking quarter – both in profitability and in guest satisfaction,” said Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways. “We’re growing sustainably, operating efficiently, and delivering remarkable experiences across every part of the journey.”

With more destinations, enhanced services, and continued investment in fleet and technology, Etihad is set to keep the momentum going strong throughout 2025.