Etihad has more network growth ‘on the horizon’

Etihad Airways plans to expand its network after reporting rising monthly and annual passenger carryings.

The national airline of the United Arab Emirates flew 1.6 million passengers in September – up 400,000 year-on-year – as it fleet size increased from 79 to 95 aircraft.

Destinations served from its Abu Dhabi hub rose from 68 to 76 with more planned.

Overall passenger volumes increased to 13.6 million in the year to date from 10.1 million in the same period last year.

Chief executive Antonoaldo Neves said: “Our passenger numbers in September saw significant growth compared to the same period last year, highlighting our continuing upwards momentum.

“Year-to-date, Etihad has welcomed 13.6 million passengers, marking a substantial 35% increase from the previous year. 

“As of September 2024, the airline’s rolling 12-month passenger total stands at 17.5 million, up from 10 million in 2022, underlining the pace of our growth in less than two years.

“Despite expanding our capacity compared to 2023, we maintained our robust passenger load factor of 87% year-to-date, demonstrating the continued preference for Etihad among travellers.”

He added: ”Our route map has swelled to 76 passenger destinations, from 68 this time last year. We announced two new routes Prague and Warsaw in September with more on the horizon, as we continue to fulfil our growth promise.

“The route expansion is facilitated by our fleet growth year-on-year which is augmenting Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a global aviation connector and as a major destination for tourists from around the world.”