Etihad Soars with Record Profit & Global Expansion
Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways has announced a record profit of $476 million in 2024, a remarkable turnaround fueled by efficiency improvements, a 32% surge in passenger numbers, lower fuel costs, and increased cargo revenues. Despite still trailing its local rival Emirates, which reported profits of $4.7 billion in 2024, Etihad’s strong performance and ambitious international expansion plans signal a promising future for the carrier.
In 2024, Etihad generated revenues of $6.9 billion while transporting 18.5 million passengers and boosting cargo revenues by 24% to reach $1.1 billion. These stellar figures underscore the airline’s successful strategy in improving operational efficiency and optimizing its network. The carrier currently serves 80 destinations worldwide using a fleet of 97 Airbus and Boeing aircraft. Notably, the airline expanded its fleet in 2024 by adding six new Airbus A321neos and reintroducing a fifth Airbus A380 into its long-haul operations, further reinforcing its commitment to modernization and growth.
Etihad CEO Antonoaldo Neves praised the collective efforts of the company’s team during a recent press briefing: “These results are a testament to the dedication of our people who have worked together for a purpose: delivering our strategy.” Neves emphasized that improved customer satisfaction across all cabin classes and disciplined operational efficiency have been key drivers behind the sustainable, profitable growth seen this year. He expressed confidence that Etihad would continue to be a financially strong airline delivering extraordinary customer experiences, fulfilling shareholder expectations, and contributing to the long-term prosperity of the UAE.
Looking ahead, Etihad is set to embark on an aggressive route expansion program for 2025. The latest addition to its growing network is the launch of flights to Sochi in Russia on February 18, 2025, marking Sochi as the airline’s fourteenth new destination for the year. In addition, Etihad plans to commence services to several major global cities, including Atlanta, Hanoi, Hong Kong, and Taipei, as well as to European capitals such as Prague and Warsaw. The carrier is also expanding its network across North Africa with upcoming routes to Algiers, Tunis, and Al Alamein, and bolstering its Southeast Asia presence by launching direct services to popular vacation destinations such as Chiang Mai and Krabi in Thailand, Medan in Sumatra, and Phnom Penh in Cambodia.
Furthermore, Etihad will launch direct flights between Abu Dhabi and Nairobi, Kenya, further cementing its role as a critical bridge between the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and Europe. With these new routes, the airline is set to enhance connectivity and offer more convenient travel options for both business and leisure passengers.
Etihad’s fleet continues to grow, with a current count of 104 aircraft and an additional 98 on order. The upcoming orders include 20 Airbus A321LRs, 15 A350-1000s, eight Boeing 777-8s, 17 Boeing 777-9s, 20 Boeing 787-10s, and eight Boeing 787-9s, underscoring the airline’s commitment to expanding and modernizing its operations.
Launched in 2003 to compete with Emirates, Etihad, along with Doha-based Qatar Airways, remains one of the “Big Three” Middle Eastern carriers. With its record profit and extensive expansion plans, Etihad is poised to further solidify its position on the global aviation stage, connecting millions of passengers and driving growth across international markets.
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