Etihad Airways Reports Unprecedented Profit Growth Amid Expansion and Rising Passenger Demand

Etihad Airways’ Remarkable Financial Performance

In a striking display of growth, Etihad Airways has reported its most successful nine months yet, reaching a profit after tax of AED 1.7 billion (USD 463 million), marking a 26% increase compared to the previous year. The airline’s revenue rose by 18% to AED 21.7 billion, fueled by expanded capacity, increased load factors, and sustained passenger demand across its network.

Key Financial Highlights

Fleet Expansion and Route Development

Etihad’s operational fleet has expanded to 115 aircraft as of September 2025, significantly exceeding last year’s numbers by 19 planes. The third quarter alone witnessed the addition of nine aircraft, including A321LRs, Boeing 787s, Airbus A350s, and an A320. This rapid expansion has enabled the airline to increase flight frequencies in key markets and launch new destinations, which in turn pushed a more than 20% growth in Available Seat Kilometres (ASK) during the third quarter.

New and Upcoming Destinations

• Recent launches: Atlanta and Al Alamein
• Announced for 2025 and beyond: Salalah, Kazan, Krakow
• Over 100 destinations currently served, including 91 operational hubs

Elevating Customer Experience

The airline’s investments to enhance the passenger journey are clearly paying off, with customer satisfaction reaching record levels across all cabin classes. The introduction of the A321LR fleet, featuring first-class suites and fully lie-flat business seats in a 1-1 layout, has especially resonated with premium travelers. These upgrades helped generate unprecedented Net Promoter Scores, reflecting solid loyalty and positive feedback.

Service Innovation in the Cabin

• First suites designed for privacy and intimacy
• Business class seats offering full recline comfort
• Redesigned cabin interiors for a modern feel
• Inaugural A321LR flight to Phuket marked a milestone

Operational Efficiency and Workforce Growth

Operational profitability also showed substantial improvement, with EBITDA climbing by 27% to AED 4.3 billion, lifting margins to 20%. Cash flow is strong too, with nearly AED 6 billion generated, driven by effective management and expanding operations.

Supporting this ambitious growth, Etihad hired over 2,600 employees in the first nine months of 2025, including 200 pilots and 1,500 cabin crew members. More than 1,500 internal promotions indicate a focus on nurturing talent alongside network expansion.

Partnerships and Industry Recognition

The airline expanded its commercial partnerships, including loyalty alliances with Vietnam Airlines and enhanced cargo collaborations with Atlas Air. It also earned a coveted Five-Star Global Airline rating for 2026 from APEX, highlighting ongoing commitments to excellence and service consistency.

Impact on Transfers and Taxi Services

All this growth and elevated passenger traffic at hubs like Abu Dhabi naturally ripple into the ground transportation segment. With millions of passengers passing through each year, demand for reliable airport transfers, taxis, and private hire cars escalates. Travelers increasingly seek not just a ride but a seamless travel experience from doorstep to destination.

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How LocalsRide Enhances Travel Planning

• Choose the exact car type and seating capacity
• Review comprehensive vehicle and driver details upfront
• Benefit from fair pricing and clear fare estimates
• Enjoy a smoother transition between flights and local transport

Why Even the Best Reviews Can’t Replace Personal Experience

While the data and reviews around Etihad’s growth and customer satisfaction are compelling, personal experience remains the ultimate test. Every traveler’s journey is unique, with nuances that statistics can seldom capture. On LocalsRide, travelers can book cars with verified drivers from trusted providers, ensuring quality without breaking the bank or facing unpleasant surprises. The platform’s extensive vehicle choices and added options ensure that users tailor their ride to their travel style and needs, all with unmatched transparency and convenience.

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Conclusion: A New Chapter in Air and Ground Travel

Etihad Airways’ robust profit and capacity growth showcase a thriving global airline elevating passenger experiences and expanding its reach. The upswing in passenger numbers and fleet size naturally drives higher demand for efficient ground transport services, including taxis and private transfers, where platforms like LocalsRide provide an excellent solution for travelers seeking precise, reliable, and transparent booking options. Whether it’s an airport transfer or a tailored trip across a city, knowing you can choose your vehicle and driver upfront adds a layer of comfort to any journey. In today’s travel landscape, combining strong airline performance with smart ground transportation choices ensures travelers benefit from an end-to-end smooth ride—exactly what modern explorers look for in their trips.