Etihad passenger numbers hit 2 million in October as growth climbs 28pc

High load factors reflect sustained demand across global routes

Etihad Airways
Caption: Etihad Airways reports 2 million October passengers, 28% growth, strong load factors and fleet expansion to 120 aircraft.
Source: Etihad Airways


ABU DHABIEtihad Airways has reported a strong performance in October 2025, transporting 2.0 million passengers, marking an impressive 28 percent increase compared with October 2024.

The UAE’s national airline continued to sustain an 88% passenger load factor, reflecting efficient capacity management supported by network expansion. Year-to-date, Etihad has carried 18.1 million passengers, representing 19% growth over the first ten months of 2024.

Passenger growth

By the end of October, Etihad’s operating fleet expanded to 120 aircraft, enabling wider route coverage and increased passenger capacity. The airline’s active network now comprises more than 100 destinations in total, with 96 operated during the month, demonstrating a robust global footprint across key markets.

The consistent load factor of 88% for both the month and year-to-date highlights strong demand and effective resource deployment in a competitive aviation landscape. This performance has been underpinned by strategic planning, capacity alignment and focused route development.

Etihad network

Etihad’s Chief Executive Officer, Antonoaldo Neves, said October’s exceptional 28% passenger growth reinforces the momentum built through the first nine months of 2025. He noted that the combination of a growing fleet, expanding network and sustained performance metrics is shaping a promising outcome for the year.