Etihad Airways reports record results of US$187 million

Etihad Airways has delivered record-breaking financial performance and highest-ever customer satisfaction performance in the first quarter of 2025.

Image: Etihad Airways

Profit after tax reached US$187 million, marking a 30 per cent increase year-on-year, driven by robust passenger demand and operational efficiencies. Total revenue saw a 15 per cent rise compared to Q1 2024, supported by both passenger and cargo business.

Etihad continues to lead the region in passenger growth, carrying 5.0 million guests in Q1 2025 – a 16 per cent year-on-year increase – and maintaining strong momentum into Q2. With nearly 20 million passengers carried over the last 12 months, Etihad is the fastest-growing airline in the region.

Customer satisfaction reached a record high in Q1 2025, with scores improving by 20 per cent year-on-year. Gains were recorded across key touchpoints, including check-in, boarding, inflight service, food and beverage, Wi-Fi, and the updated website and mobile app. The quarter also saw the launch of new lounge and inflight menus, alongside upgraded service standards.

The fleet continued to expand to support the guest experience. One additional A380 returned to service during the quarter, offering First Apartments and The Residence. In April, Etihad took delivery of another A350-1000, with another Boeing 787 Dreamliner to follow. These new aircraft feature ultra-high-speed Wi-Fi and updated inflight entertainment systems.

Etihad also advanced its premium offering, expanding First Class to more routes and preparing new ground and inflight services for rollout from August. In April, the airline introduced its new A321LR cabin, becoming the first in the region to offer First Class on a single-aisle aircraft. The cabin features exclusive private First suites and lie-flat Business seats, bringing widebody comfort to medium-haul routes. The broader First class experience will include a new concierge service, private chauffeur transfers, dedicated check-in, meet-and-assist service, and baggage-free travel options in Abu Dhabi.

“We are proud to deliver a record-breaking quarter – both in profitability and in guest satisfaction,” said Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways. “Achieving our highest-ever Q1 profit of US$187 million and our best-ever customer satisfaction scores reflects the strength of our business and the dedication of our people.

“We’re executing a clear strategy: grow sustainably, operate efficiently, and never lose focus on delivering remarkable experiences to our guests. From continued refinements to our onboard offering to improved airport services and the debut of our A321LR with a market-leading narrowbody product, we’re raising the bar in every part of the journey.

“Our network continues to expand with 16 new routes announced for 2025 and additional aircraft joining our fleet. As we grow, we remain disciplined and focused on quality, efficiency, and creating value for our customers and stakeholders.”

Passenger revenue grew by 16 per cent reaching US$1.5 billion, driven by increased capacity, continued network expansion and increased flight frequencies.