Etihad Airways has reached a major milestone in its growth journey, now operating 300 scheduled passenger flights each day – its most powerful operation since the start.
The achievement reflects annual growth of more than 20 percent in daily operations, placing Abu Dhabi’s network among the fastest growing airlines worldwide.
Etihad operates all 300 flights as scheduled passenger services, strengthening its role in connecting people and cultures while moving towards the most connected cities in the world available.
Etihad Milestone
Captain Marzed Al MarzouQi, Chief Operations and Guest Ambassador at Etihad Airways, said: “We are expanding the areas we serve, as well as our talented workforce, all in line with our mission to make Etihad Everyone wants to fly.
“This milestone represents one of the fastest growing areas in the global aviation industry, made possible by the dedication of our people and the trust of our guests.”
He added that Etihad’s continued growth in all metrics highlights the strength of its network and Abu Dhabi’s position as a global aviation hub.
“Our development is efficient, robust and purposeful, driven by the dedication of our people and the continued trust of our guests.
“True to the essence of our name, Etihad, which means union, we are committed to bringing people and opportunities together through seamless connectivity and world-class service.”
Record ridership growth
In September 2025, Etihad carried 1.9m passengers, an increase of 21 percent over the same month in 2024, while maintaining 89 PETER SADER FORTOR.
In every nine months of 2025, airlines fly 16.1m passengers, 18 percent year-on-year, showing an efficient network delivery.
The carrier continues to invest in the guest experience while maintaining record occupancy rates and a Net High Promoter Score.
Continuous improvements to airports, digital platforms, and onboard products ensure a commitment to working together with real hospitals.
Networking and fleet growth
Etihad’s 300-Flight Milestone is backed by its heyday. By September 2025, network capacity is up 25 percent year-on-year, supported by fleet growth and a wave of new route launches.
Our Airline has launched or announced 31 new destinations by 2025, including Medan (Sumatra), Phnom Penh (Cambodia), Addis Ababa (Thailand), and KRABI (Thailand), and its KRABI in nearly 90 destinations.
Europe remains the most important region, with international flights increasing by 35 percent this summer compared to 2024.
Etihad’s operational fleet has grown to 115 aircraft, up from 96 a year earlier – its biggest year-on-year increase.
The additions include new A350s, 787 Dreamliners, two returning A380s, and new A321lrs equipped with the first private seats and new Lie-Flat business seats, setting a new benchmark for premium travel.
Zayled International Airport Communications
Zayled International Airport (Zia) supports Etihad’s growth with the handling of 45M passengers every 65 gates.
Advanced biometric systems and organized procedures enable passengers to check-in and go to the gate in 12 minutes, while pregramium areas and advanced facilities improve all stages of the journey.
Etihad success
Etihad hired 1,700 new employees in the first half of 2025, including more than 100 pilots and 1,000 cabin crew, and promoted more than 1,100 team members.
Earlier this year, Etihad launched its UAE National Talent strategy to attract and develop Emirati professionals at all levels of division.
The strategy includes dedicated career tracks for pilots, engineers, flight managers, and aviation talent, and aims to double the Emirati workforce within five years, ensuring that UAE Natures remains at the forefront of the continued success of aviation.
