Etihad Airways has announced its highest-ever profit and passenger satisfaction scores for the first quarter of 2025. The Abu Dhabi-based airline reported a profit after tax of AED 685 million (US$187 million), which is a 30 percent increase compared to Q1 2024. The strong performance is linked to high passenger demand, increased operational efficiency, and the expansion of its fleet and network.
The airline’s total revenue rose by 15 percent year-on-year, fueled by both passenger and cargo operations. Etihad carried 5 million guests in the first three months of the year, a 16 percent rise from Q1 2024. Over the past 12 months, the airline transported nearly 20 million passengers, making it the fastest-growing airline in the Middle East.
Customer satisfaction also reached new heights in Q1 2025. The airline recorded a 20 percent year-on-year increase in satisfaction scores. Key areas such as check-in, boarding, inflight service, food, Wi-Fi, and the digital booking process all saw improvements. Etihad also introduced new lounge menus and upgraded onboard services during the quarter.
Etihad’s fleet continued to grow. By the end of March, the airline operated 98 aircraft, including the return of a sixth Airbus A380. The A380 offers luxury options like The Residence and First Apartments. In April, an Airbus A350-1000 was added to the fleet, and a Boeing 787 Dreamliner is scheduled for delivery soon. These aircraft come with high-speed Wi-Fi and improved inflight entertainment systems.
The airline made a major move in premium travel by introducing the new A321LR cabin. It is the first in the Middle East to offer First Class on a narrowbody aircraft. The cabin includes private First suites and lie-flat Business seats, offering widebody comfort on medium-haul flights. Etihad is also rolling out new ground and inflight services from August, including private concierge support, dedicated check-in, baggage-free travel options, and chauffeur transfers in Abu Dhabi.
As of March 2025, Etihad served 80 destinations and plans to launch 16 new routes by the end of the year. These new destinations are expected to strengthen its global reach and support continued passenger growth. The airline is also increasing flight frequencies on several routes to meet rising demand.
Passenger revenue grew by 16 percent in Q1 2025, reaching AED 5.5 billion (US$1.5 billion). This growth was supported by a 14 percent increase in Available Seat Kilometres (ASK) and a passenger load factor of 87 percent, up by one percentage point compared to the same quarter last year.
Etihad Cargo also contributed to the airline’s strong results. Although cargo volumes dropped by 4 percent, revenue still grew by 8 percent due to better yield management. This shows that the cargo business remains a key part of Etihad’s balanced revenue strategy.
Financial performance was further strengthened by a rise in EBITDA, which climbed 32 percent year-on-year to AED 1.4 billion (US$379 million). The EBITDA margin increased to 21 percent, up from 18 percent in Q1 2024. Net leverage improved significantly, falling from 1.9x in March 2024 to 1.1x. This was made possible by scheduled debt repayments and strong operational cash flow.
Cash flow from operations reached AED 1.8 billion (US$500 million), an 11 percent increase from the same period last year. The strong cash position allows the airline to invest in new services and further expansion.
Etihad’s focus on quality, efficiency, and customer experience continues to drive its growth. The company is set to maintain its strong momentum into the second quarter of 2025. As it expands its fleet and route network, the airline is committed to delivering better service and more value to travelers.
