DALLAS — Etihad Airways (EY) recorded a remarkable profit of AED685 million (around US$186.5 million) in the first quarter of 2025, reflecting a 30% year-on-year increase driven by strong market demand and improved operational efficiency. 

Additionally, the airline’s overall revenue grew by 15%. Key factors behind this growth include increased flight capacity, an expanded global network, and more frequent services.

Etihad’s operational performance in Q1 2025 showed strong upward momentum across all key metrics:

• Passenger revenue rose to AED5.5 billion (US$1.5 billion), reflecting a 16% increase year-on-year.
• Cargo revenue grew 8%, reaching AED958 million (US$261 million).
• The airline carried 5 million passengers during the quarter, up 16% from the previous year, while the load factor improved to 87%, compared to 86% in Q1 2024.
• Etihad also expanded its fleet from 89 to 98 aircraft and added four new destinations, bringing the total to 80. The airline hired 650 new cabin crew members and 70 pilots to support its growing operations.

Customer Satisfaction Climbed to a Historic High

Customer satisfaction hit an all-time high in the first quarter of 2025, with scores rising by 20% compared to the same period last year. Improvements were noted across all major areas of the travel experience, including check-in, boarding, inflight service, food and beverages, Wi-Fi, and the redesigned website and mobile app. The quarter also marked the introduction of new lounge and inflight menus and enhanced service standards.

“We are proud to deliver a record-breaking quarter – both in profitability and guest satisfaction,” said Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways. “Achieving our highest-ever Q1 profit of AED 685 million and our best-ever customer satisfaction scores reflects the strength of our business and the dedication of our people.”

Etihad Airways’ Q1 2025 results reflect steady growth across key areas, including revenue, passenger numbers, and network expansion. Operational improvements and service upgrades have also contributed to a notable rise in customer satisfaction. As the airline moves forward, it appears stable, balancing business performance with efforts to enhance the travel experience.