Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
Etihad Airways has reported a record profit of Dh685 million ($187 million) in the first quarter of 2025, marking a 30% year-on-year (YoY) increase, alongside its highest-ever customer satisfaction scores. The performance underscores a strong start to the year driven by robust passenger demand, operational efficiencies, and continued network growth.
Total revenue rose 15% compared to Q1 2024, supported by both the passenger and cargo business. Passenger revenue climbed 16% to reach Dh5.5 billion ($1.5 billion), fuelled by increased capacity, higher frequencies, and an expanded route network. The airline carried 5 million guests, a 16% increase from the same period last year, maintaining solid momentum into Q2.
Passenger growth was further supported by a 14% year-on-year increase in Available Seat Kilometres (ASK) and an improved load factor of 87%, up 1 percentage point. The airline's fleet reached 98 aircraft by the end of March, including the reintroduction of its sixth Airbus A380. An additional A350-1000 joined the fleet in April, supporting continued expansion.
As of March 2025, Etihad operated 80 destinations, with 16 new routes scheduled to launch this year to extend its global footprint. Cargo revenue grew 8% year-on-year due to improved yield, despite a 4% decline in volumes.
Operational performance was equally strong, with EBITDA rising 32% to Dh1.4 billion ($379 million), lifting the EBITDA margin to 21%, up 3 percentage points from Q1 2024.
Customer satisfaction also surged to a new high in Q1 2025, with scores improving 20% year-on-year. Significant gains were recorded across service touchpoints including check-in, boarding, inflight service, food and beverage, digital platforms, and Wi-Fi. The quarter also saw the rollout of new lounge and inflight menus and upgraded service standards.
“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 executing a clear strategy: grow sustainably, operate efficiently, and deliver remarkable experiences.”
Over the past 12 months, Etihad has flown nearly 20 million passengers, cementing its position as the fastest-growing airline in the region.
