Passenger load factor averaged 89 percent across the month, up one percentage point from September last year, demonstrating efficient use of added capacity

Etihad Airways has carried 16.1 million passengers in the first nine months of 2025, marking an 18 percent annual increase. According to the airline's latest statistics, Etihad carried 1.9 million passengers in September 2025, marking a 21 percent increase compared with the same month last year.

The growth reflects continued demand across the airline's expanding global network and strong operational performance through the end of the summer season. Passenger load factor averaged 89 percent across the month, up one percentage point from September last year, demonstrating efficient use of added capacity.

"September delivered another strong month for Etihad, with demand remaining high as we entered the post-summer period. Year-on-year growth continues across all key metrics, reflecting the strength of our network and Abu Dhabi's growing position as a global destination," said Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways.

Etihad Airways' operating fleet stood at 115 aircraft at the end of September, serving 82 passenger destinations worldwide.

"We're expanding with discipline, keeping our load factors high and operations reliable. These results show clear momentum and focused execution - exactly what we set out to achieve in 2025," Neves added.

In the first half of the year, Etihad welcomed 10.2 million travelers on board, reflecting a 17 percent rise from the same period in 2024. The average passenger load factor for the year to date stands at an impressive 87 percent.

In August, Etihad Airways marked a historic milestone, carrying more than 2 million passengers in a single month for the first time ever. The airline welcomed 2 million guests during the month, a 22 percent increase compared to August 2024.

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Etihad Airways aims to carry approximately 21.5 million passengers by the end of the year, more than double the number recorded in 2022. The airline's CEO recently said the growth is underpinned by a major fleet expansion, with 18 new aircraft expected to be delivered before the year ends.

Having transported more than 10 million passengers during the first half of the year, the airline is on track to close 2025 with a fleet of between 115 and 120 aircraft.

On its global network, which is approaching 100 destinations, Neves explained that the airline's growth strategy is not limited to adding new routes, but also includes increasing frequencies on existing routes. Flights to destinations such as Frankfurt and Barcelona have doubled to twice daily, while Bangkok now receives five daily flights during peak periods.

Etihad Airways' CEO noted that around two-thirds of the increased capacity is allocated to existing destinations, with only one-third targeting new routes, highlighting the airline's focus on strengthening its market position in established regions.

Etihad Airways carries 16.1 million passengers in the first nine months of 2025