Etihad sets new passenger record with 29% surge

UAE national carrier Etihad Airways has reported a strong start to 2026, carrying more than 2 million passengers in January, representing a 29% increase from 1.7 million in 2025. The strong performance was fuelled by fleet expansion and network growth. 

 

Etihad now serves 110 destinations, having added 16 new routes in 2025, with more planned for the year ahead. Among its key additions were Phnom Penh in Cambodia; Krakow in Poland; and Addis Ababa in Ethiopia. This year, the carrier is set to enter new markets including Luxembourg and Calgary, creating the first-ever direct links between Abu Dhabi and the two cities when services commence in Q4 2026. 

 

The carrier’s passenger load factor rose to 89.9%, up from 89.1% year-on-year, reflecting sustained international demand across its expanding network in Southeast Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas. 

 

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Strengthening its strategic partnerships, Etihad also recently signed a new codeshare agreement with Tunisair, extending North Africa access for GCC travellers. 

 

Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad, said: "Demand is high, our product is resonating with customers, and the dedication of our teams is evident in every flight.

 

"Maintaining load factors above 89 per cent while growing capacity at this pace is something we are proud of. It reflects the strength of our network and Abu Dhabi’s growing appeal as both a destination and a gateway for travellers across the region and beyond.”

 

Etihad’s fleet growth has also accelerated, now operating 127 aircraft in 2026 compared to 101 a year ago. Looking ahead, the carrier aims to scale its fleet to 200 aircraft by 2030, supporting plans to serve more than 38 million passengers annually.

 

For more information, visit etihad.com