Etihad Airways has reported a record financial performance for the first quarter of 2025, solidifying its success from the previous year with notable enhancements in revenue, operational efficiency, and fleet expansion.

According to a press release issued today, the airline's post-tax profits reached AED 685 million (USD 187 million), marking a year-on-year increase of 30%.

This growth has been attributed to improved operational effectiveness and robust demand for passenger services.

Overall revenues rose by 15% compared to the first quarter of 2024, fueled by ongoing growth in both passenger and cargo sectors.

The airline continues to lead in regional passenger growth, transporting 5 million passengers during the first quarter of 2025, a 16% increase year-on-year, with strong momentum anticipated to carry into the second quarter.

Over the last 12 months, Etihad Airways has transported nearly 20 million passengers, establishing itself as the fastest-growing airline in the region.

Customer satisfaction levels reached an all-time high during Q1 2025, improving by 20% compared to the previous year.

Antonaldo Neves, the CEO of Etihad Airways, expressed pride in achieving an exceptional first quarter in terms of profits and record guest satisfaction levels.

He noted that the airline recorded its highest-ever first-quarter profit of AED 685 million and the best customer satisfaction scores in its history, reflecting the strength of its operations and employee commitment.

Neves highlighted the implementation of a clear strategy focused on sustainable growth and operational efficiency.

The airline is dedicated to providing exceptional experiences for its guests through continuous improvements in in-flight services, airport service development, and the introduction of its A321LR aircraft, which offers a market-leading product.

The company is also expanding its network, with the announcement of 16 new destinations for 2025 and the addition of a new aircraft to its fleet.

Passenger revenues increased by 16%, amounting to AED 5.5 billion (USD 1.5 billion).

This growth is attributed to increased capacity, ongoing network expansion, and higher flight frequencies.

Passenger growth was particularly pronounced, with a 14% year-on-year rise in available seat kilometers and an improvement in the passenger load factor, which reached 87%, up one percentage point from the previous year.

The fleet expansion is also accelerating, with the number of aircraft in service reaching 98 by the end of the quarter, including the reintroduction of the sixth A380 aircraft.

Furthermore, the airline expanded its operational fleet in April with the delivery of an additional A350-1000.

As of March 2025, Etihad operated 80 destinations, with plans to launch 16 new routes this year to support ongoing growth and expand access to key global markets.

Additionally, improved cargo revenues contributed to revenue growth of 8% year-on-year, despite a 4% decrease in cargo demand.

The airline's strong operational performance is reflected in the operating profit before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization, which increased by 32% year-on-year to AED 1.4 billion.

Financial leverage improved to 1.1 times, down from 1.9 times in March 2024, supported by debt repayments and strong cash generation, with operating cash flows reaching AED 1.8 billion (USD 500 million), representing an 11% year-on-year increase.