Abu Dhabi’s Etihad transports 12 million passengers in 8 months

Image: Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways, the UAE’s national airline, reported a significant rise in passenger numbers for August 2024, carrying 1.7 million travellers with a robust 89 per cent average passenger load factor.

The strong summer performance underscores the airline’s ongoing growth trajectory.

Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways, expressed optimism about the results: “Our August figures reflect a substantial increase in passenger numbers compared to the same period last year, reinforcing our growth momentum.”

Year-to-date, Etihad has transported 12 million passengers, marking a 36 per cent rise from the previous year.

The rolling 12-month count has now surpassed 17 million passengers, nearly 70 per cent more than the total for 2022.

“Our load factor of 89 per cent in August, achieved even as we expanded capacity, highlights Etihad’s growing appeal among travellers,” Neves added. “This is particularly notable during the holiday season, which remains a critical time for travel.”

Etihad reports expansion in fleet

The carrier’s operating fleet also saw notable expansion, with the number of aircraft rising to 95 from 79 in the same period last year.

The increase of 16 new planes reflects the airline’s accelerated fleet growth, including the introduction of six A321neos in 2024, with the final two entering service in August.

The airline has also increased its route network, now flying to 10 additional destinations compared to last year.

“Our expansion, driven by a collective commitment from the entire Etihad team, has been instrumental in delivering consistent results while enhancing connectivity for travellers to and from Abu Dhabi,” Neves concluded.