Sky-high success: How many passengers did Etihad Airways carry in 2025?

Image credit: WAM/Website

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, has reported strong growth in its May 2025 traffic statistics, reflecting continued expansion and robust customer demand.

The airline carried 1.7 million passengers in May, a 19 per cent increase compared to the same month last year. This growth reflects Etihad’s strategic expansion and strengthening market position. The passenger load factor rose to 87 per cent, up from 84 per cent in May 2024, underlining the airline’s ability to optimise capacity while meeting growing demand, a WAM report said.

Fleet reaches 100 aircraft

Etihad’s operating fleet has now reached 100 aircraft, supporting its expanding global network and ongoing service enhancements. Between January and May 2025, the airline carried 8.4 million travellers, marking a 17 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2024. The average passenger load factor over this period remained steady at an impressive 87 per cent.

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Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said the carrier continues to build momentum.

“We saw a pleasing continued growth in our momentum, with May’s passenger numbers growing by 19 per cent year-on-year, underlining our position as the fastest-growing Middle East airline,” Neves said. “Our year-to-date results show more than 8 million customers have flown with us in 2025, and our rolling 12-month figure now stands at almost 20 million — a testament to the trust placed in Etihad’s service.

“We reached an exciting milestone in May as our fleet number hit the 100 mark. As we continue expanding our route network and growing our fleet in the coming months, our focus remains on delivering a seamless and exceptional customer experience.”