Etihad Airways Breaks Record: 31 New Destinations and 300 Flights Daily

The airline from Abu Dhabi, Etihad Airways, has reached a significant milestone in its history, beginning to operate 300 regular passenger flights daily, reflecting one of the fastest growth rates in the global aviation industry.

This marks an increase of more than 20% compared to last year, stemming from the expansion of its route network, steady demand from passengers, and a "commitment to operational excellence," according to the company.

All flights are commercial passenger flights, and the new figure highlights Etihad's central role in connecting cultures and international destinations, while strengthening Abu Dhabi's position as one of the most connected cities in the world.

Etihad Airways. Photo: Shutterstock

According to Captain Majed Al Marzouqi, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Guest Services Officer of the company: "We are expanding the destinations we serve, the fleet we operate, and our talented crew - all with one goal: to make Etihad the airline everyone wants to fly with. This is an outstanding achievement reflecting the fastest growth in the industry, thanks to the dedication of our people and the trust of the guests who chose to fly with us."

In September 2025, Etihad flew 1.9 million passengers, an increase of 21% compared to the same period last year, maintaining an average occupancy of 89%. From the beginning of the year until the end of September, the company flew 16.1 million passengers, up 18% compared to the previous year.

In terms of profits, Etihad Airways completed the first half of 2025 with a net profit of $306 million and revenues of $3.7 billion.

Palma de Mallorca. Photo: Shutterstock

The airline continues to expand both in terms of its aircraft fleet and route network. Currently, Etihad operates 115 aircraft, compared to only 96 in September 2024. This year, A350 aircraft, Boeing 787 Dreamliners, two A380 aircraft returning to service, and A321LR aircraft with business class sleep pods and first-class private suites have been added to the fleet.

In 2025 alone, the company launched 31 new destinations, including Zanzibar (Tanzania), Palma de Mallorca (Spain), Toronto (Canada), Medan (Indonesia), Phnom Penh (Cambodia), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia, in cooperation with Ethiopian Airlines), and Krabi (Thailand), bringing its network to nearly 90 cities. Europe saw a 35% growth in summer flights compared to last year.

Railay Beach Krabi, Thailand. Photo: Shutterstock

Etihad attributes much of its success to the new Zayed International Airport, enabling efficient and modern operations with a capacity of 45 million passengers a year and 65 gates. New biometric systems allow passage from entry point to gate in just 12 minutes, alongside lounges and premium services providing a seamless flight experience.

The company continues to invest in its workforce, recruiting 1,700 new employees in the first half of the year, including more than 100 pilots and 1,000 cabin crew. Additionally, 1,100 employees were promoted within the company.

As part of its national strategy, Etihad launched the National Talent Development Program to identify and recruit Emirati professionals in diverse fields - pilots, engineers, airport managers, and senior business leaders. Over the next five years, the company aims to double the number of Emirati employees in its ranks.

It should be noted that the company demonstrates a long-term commitment to the Israeli market since it began operations under the Abraham Accords. Among other things, it was one of the first airlines to resume flights whenever possible during conflicts, continuing to fly to Israel with minimal interruptions.

Photo: SHUTTERSTOCK