8.7 million passengers flown by Etihad in first half of 2024

Etihad Airways, the pride of the UAE and a leading global airline, has made significant strides in the first half of 2024. According to preliminary traffic statistics released by the carrier, Etihad flew a total of 8.7 million passengers in the first six months of the year. This impressive figure showcases the airline’s commitment to providing top-notch service and connecting passengers to destinations around the world.

In June alone, Etihad welcomed 1.5 million guests on board its flights, achieving an average passenger load factor of 86 percent. This high load factor demonstrates the popularity of Etihad’s routes and services, especially as international travel begins to rebound after a challenging period. Antonoaldo Neves, the CEO of Etihad Airways, expressed his satisfaction with the airline’s performance by stating, “Year to date, we have flown 8.7 million passengers, an increase of nearly 2.5 million, almost 40 percent, compared to the previous year.”

One key factor contributing to Etihad’s success is its growing fleet size. In the first half of 2024, Etihad operated a fleet of 92 aircraft, a significant increase from the 76 aircraft in operation during the same period in 2023. Neves emphasized the importance of this fleet expansion, highlighting that the airline’s passenger load factor remained healthy at 85 percent for the year despite the capacity expansion.

Looking ahead, Etihad has ambitious plans to further expand its fleet. The airline aims to increase its fleet size to 150 aircraft by the year 2030, signaling its long-term commitment to growth and innovation in the aviation industry. With an expanding fleet and a strong passenger demand, Etihad is well-positioned to continue serving its customers and reaching new heights in the years to come.

In terms of route expansion, Etihad has been actively adding new destinations to its network. In June, the airline launched services to eight additional locations, including Bali, Jaipur, and Al Qassim, as well as seasonal destinations like Nice, Antalya, Mykonos, Santorini, and Malaga. These new routes offer passengers more options for travel and further solidify Etihad’s presence in key markets around the world.

To enhance its fleet and services, Etihad has also introduced new aircraft into its operations. The airline recently welcomed three A321neos to its fleet, with plans to add three more in the near future. One of these A321neos features a special livery, showcasing Etihad’s commitment to innovation and creativity in its branding and design.

Earlier this year, Etihad Airways reported a strong financial performance in the first quarter, with a profit of 3 million (Dhs526 million). This marked a significant increase from the same period in the previous year, driven by higher passenger revenue and reduced net finance costs. The positive financial results have fueled speculation about a potential public offering for the airline, leading to increased investor interest in Etihad’s future prospects.

In conclusion, Etihad Airways has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth in the first half of 2024. With a growing fleet, expanding route network, and strong financial performance, the airline is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of travelers and continue its legacy as a leading global carrier. As international travel continues to recover, Etihad’s commitment to excellence and innovation will undoubtedly set it apart in the competitive aviation industry.