Latest news with #Neves
Al Etihad
14 hours ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
Etihad Airways accelerates growth with record aircraft deliveries
30 July 2025 19:04 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)Etihad Airways achieved a significant milestone in its fleet expansion programme with July 2025 becoming the busiest month for aircraft deliveries in the airline's 22-year history. Throughout July, Etihad took delivery of five aircraft including its inaugural A321LR, two Boeing 787 Dreamliners, one Airbus A350-1000, and one Airbus record-breaking month demonstrates the airline's commitment to rapid growth as it works towards its target to carry 38 million passengers annually by 2030. The five aircraft will significantly enhance Etihad's capacity across its expanding global Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: "July has been a remarkable month for Etihad Airways. Taking delivery of five aircraft is our most intensive delivery programme to date and showcases our ambitious growth trajectory. These aircraft will enable us to serve more destinations, offer increased frequencies, and deliver the exceptional experiences our guests expect across our network."The delivery programme reflects Etihad's strategic approach to fleet modernisation, with each aircraft type serving specific network requirements. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner will support long-haul operations to destinations across Asia, Australia, and North America, while the Airbus A350-1000 will enhance capacity on high-demand routes. A particular highlight of July's deliveries was Etihad's first Airbus A321LR, which represents a significant milestone as the airline's inaugural aircraft of this type. Etihad defines luxury again with a revolutionary cabin configuration to Etihad's narrowbody operations, featuring dedicated First Suites alongside lie-flat Business seats, a first for narrowbody aircraft in the region, and enhanced Economy seating with seatback entertainment - bringing premium in-flight experiences to medium and short-haul routes. The deliveries bring Etihad's total fleet to 106 aircraft. The airline operates one of the world's youngest fleets, with an average aircraft age of 8.7 years, supporting operational efficiency and enhanced passenger aircraft deliveries support Etihad's recently announced network expansion, which includes 27 new destinations and increased frequencies across existing routes. The airline has experienced remarkable growth, carrying more than 20 million passengers in the last 12 months for the first time in its history, doubling passenger numbers from 2022 fleet expansion programme continues beyond July, with 20 additional aircraft per annum expected for delivery throughout 2025 and 2026. By expanding its fleet and network, Etihad Airways is strengthening Abu Dhabi's position as a global aviation hub and offering unparalleled travel experiences to millions of passengers worldwide. For more information, please visit
Gulf Today
7 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Today
Etihad targets 21.5m passengers, 18 new aircraft
Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer at Etihad Airways, unveiled the airline's ambitious plans for 2025, aiming to carry approximately 21.5 million passengers by the end of the year, more than double the number recorded in 2022. Speaking to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), Neves said the growth is underpinned by a major fleet expansion, with 18 new aircraft expected to be delivered before the year ends. Two aircraft have already joined the fleet, with 16 more scheduled for delivery in the coming months. Having transported more than 10 million passengers during the first half of the year, the airline is on track to close 2025 with a fleet of between 115 and 120 aircraft. Neves reviewed the airline's upward performance trajectory, noting that Etihad Airways reached financial break-even in 2022, achieved a profit margin of 3 per cent in 2023, and increased that to around 6 per cent last year. This year, profit margins are expected to range between 7 and 8 per cent. He said the company is following a strategy of 'gradually expanding margins each year' and is funding its growth through internal cash flows, contributing to sustainable financial performance. On its global network, which is approaching 100 destinations, the CEO explained that the airline's growth strategy is not limited to adding new routes, but also includes increasing frequencies on existing routes. Flights to destinations such as Frankfurt and Barcelona have doubled to twice daily, while Bangkok now receives five daily flights during peak periods. He noted that around two-thirds of the increased capacity is allocated to existing destinations, with only one-third targeting new routes, highlighting the airline's focus on strengthening its market position in established regions. Atlanta, for instance, launched with five weekly flights and now operates daily. New York, which had one daily flight 18 months ago, now operates two, and all western destinations are now served with daily flights. Neves confirmed that Etihad Airways' strategy through to 2030 focuses on strengthening its presence, particularly in markets within a four-hour flight radius, including India, Pakistan and the Middle East. The airline currently operates four daily flights to key destinations such as Colombo, Riyadh, Jeddah, Mumbai and Muscat, offering competitive flexibility in schedules that caters to diverse traveller segments. He added that the airline aims to offer at least two daily flights to all its destinations across Southeast Asia, Europe and the eastern United States. In a step to redefine regional travel, Neves revealed that Etihad will take delivery of its first A321 Long Range aircraft this week in Hamburg. This will be the first narrow-body aircraft in the fleet to feature a first-class cabin with fully flat luxury seats, which he described as 'the world's best travel experience on a narrow-body aircraft.' He affirmed that Zayed International Airport has the capacity to support this growth, with plans to grow the fleet to around 200 aircraft and serve between 38 and 39 million passengers by 2030, effectively doubling the company's size over the next five years. Neves praised the rapid development in Abu Dhabi, calling it an exceptional place to live and work. He noted that the capital's population is growing at an annual rate of 7 per cent - five to six times the global average - which is driving demand for travel and services. International events hosted by Abu Dhabi, including exhibitions and conferences, along with its expanding tourism and cultural sectors, are also contributing to increased travel demand to and from the capital. He said, 'We have doubled our flight capacity in Abu Dhabi in just two and a half years. This positions us as a major contributor to development, while also benefitting significantly from government investment in infrastructure and tourism.' In response to a question on aircraft delivery challenges, Neves explained that Etihad had anticipated delays from manufacturers and structured its operational plans accordingly by accelerating the induction of leased aircraft and reintroducing seven A380 aircraft into service. He concluded by stating that the airline is now more agile and better positioned to respond to market dynamics, as it continues advancing towards its vision of becoming the preferred airline for travellers by offering exceptional service, flexibility and smart expansion. Etihad Airways ambitious plans for 2025, aiming to carry approximately 21.5 million passengers by the end of the year, more than double the number recorded in 2022. WAM
Al Etihad
23-07-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Etihad Airways targets 21.5 million passengers, 18 new aircraft in 2025
23 July 2025 15:22 ABU DHABI (WAM) Chief Executive Officer at Etihad Airways, Antonoaldo Neves, unveiled the airline's ambitious plans for 2025, aiming to carry approximately 21.5 million passengers by the end of the year, more than double the number recorded in told WAM that the growth is underpinned by a major fleet expansion, with 18 new aircraft expected to be delivered before the year aircraft have already joined the fleet, with 16 more scheduled for delivery in the coming months. Having transported more than 10 million passengers during the first half of the year, the airline is on track to close 2025 with a fleet of between 115 and 120 reviewed the airline's upward performance trajectory, noting that Etihad Airways reached financial break-even in 2022, achieved a profit margin of 3 percent in 2023, and increased that to around 6 percent last year. This year, profit margins are expected to range between 7 and 8 said the company is following a strategy of 'gradually expanding margins each year' and is funding its growth through internal cash flows, contributing to sustainable financial its global network, which is approaching 100 destinations, the CEO explained that the airline's growth strategy is not limited to adding new routes, but also includes increasing frequencies on existing routes. Flights to destinations such as Frankfurt and Barcelona have doubled to twice daily, while Bangkok now receives five daily flights during peak noted that around two-thirds of the increased capacity is allocated to existing destinations, with only one-third targeting new routes, highlighting the airline's focus on strengthening its market position in established regions. Atlanta, for instance, launched with five weekly flights and now operates daily. New York, which had one daily flight 18 months ago, now operates two, and all western destinations are now served with daily confirmed that Etihad Airways' strategy through to 2030 focuses on strengthening its presence, particularly in markets within a four-hour flight radius, including India, Pakistan, and the Middle airline currently operates four daily flights to key destinations such as Colombo, Riyadh, Jeddah, Mumbai,and Muscat, offering competitive flexibility in schedules that caters to diverse traveller segments. He added that the airline aims to offer at least two daily flights to all its destinations across Southeast Asia, Europe and the eastern United a step to redefine regional travel, Neves revealed that Etihad will take delivery of its first A321 Long Range aircraft this week in Hamburg. This will be the first narrow-body aircraft in the fleet to feature a first-class cabin with fully flat luxury seats, which he described as 'the world's best travel experience on a narrow-body aircraft.'He affirmed that Zayed International Airport has the capacity to support this growth, with plans to grow the fleet to around 200 aircraft and serve between 38 and 39 million passengers by 2030, effectively doubling the company's size over the next five praised the rapid development in Abu Dhabi, calling it an exceptional place to live and work. He noted that the capital's population is growing at an annual rate of 7 percent – five to six times the global average–which is driving demand for travel and events hosted by Abu Dhabi, including exhibitions and conferences, along with its expanding tourism and cultural sectors, are also contributing to increased travel demand to and from the said, 'We have doubled our flight capacity in Abu Dhabi in just two and a half years. This positions us as a major contributor to development, while also benefiting significantly from government investment in infrastructure and tourism.'In response to a question on aircraft delivery challenges, Neves explained that Etihad had anticipated delays from manufacturers and structured its operational plans accordingly by accelerating the induction of leased aircraft and reintroducing seven A380 aircraft into concluded by stating that the airline is now more agile and better positioned to respond to market dynamics, as it continues advancing towards its vision of becoming the preferred airline for travellers by offering exceptional service, flexibility and smart expansion.
Arabian Post
19-07-2025
- Business
- Arabian Post
Etihad Reaches Unprecedented 20 Million Passenger Landmark
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Etihad Airways has surpassed the 20 million annual passenger mark for the first time, boosted by strong first-quarter profit and rising customer satisfaction. The airline's operating fleet now exceeds 100 aircraft as it intensifies its global expansion and pursues ambitious 2030 targets. Etihad posted a Q1 profit after tax of AED 685 million, a 30 per cent increase compared to the same period last year. Total revenue rose 15 per cent, supported by growth in both passenger and cargo operations. Passenger revenue alone increased by 16 per cent to AED 5.5 billion, reflecting stronger demand and enhanced flight frequency. The carrier flew 5 million passengers in the quarter, a 16 per cent jump year‑on‑year, with a solid load factor of 87 per cent. ADVERTISEMENT Over the past 12 months, Etihad has carried more than 20 million guests—doubling its annual passenger figures in just 30 months—and is now regarded as the fastest-growing airline in the region. Chief Executive Antonoaldo Neves described this milestone as evidence of 'sustained growth driven by expanding demand, a dynamic global network, and a clear strategic focus'. Customer satisfaction surged to record highs, with Q1 scores up 20 per cent versus a year ago. The airline attributed this to refreshed lounge and inflight menus, improved digital services, high-speed Wi‑Fi, and a revamped website and mobile app. Etihad's fleet currently comprises over 100 aircraft, including the return of its seventh Airbus A380 and the delivery of a Boeing 787‑9 with an Emirati crew, alongside its first of three Airbus A350‑1000s. A further 18 aircraft are expected in 2025, highlighted by the introduction of the A321LR narrow‑body fleet on 1 August, which will feature private First Suites, lie‑flat Business seats, 4K entertainment screens, and high‑speed Wi‑Fi across all cabins. The airline has added 27 new routes so far in 2025 and plans to operate nearly 90 destinations by year‑end. These network additions form part of Etihad's longer-term strategy to expand its global footprint to over 125 destinations and grow its fleet to more than 170 aircraft, with the aim of carrying 38 million passengers annually by 2030. Operational efficiency gains also strengthened Etihad's balance sheet. EBITDA rose 32 per cent to AED 1.4 billion, yielding a 21 per cent margin, while net leverage improved to 1.1×, down from 1.9× in March 2024. Cash flow from operations reached AED 1.8 billion, an 11 per cent improvement. These developments follow a broader resurgence at Etihad. The carrier turned around from consecutive annual losses of recent years to report a record USD 476 million profit in 2024, flying 18.5 million passengers that year—a 32 per cent increase—and generating revenue of nearly USD 6.9 billion. The Q1 results affirm progress in cost optimisation, network rationalisation and fleet modernisation initiated under CEO Neves since taking the helm in 2022 under Abu Dhabi sovereign fund ADQ. Looking ahead, Etihad plans to sustain delivery of 20-plus new aircraft annually, including further Boeing 787s and Airbus A350s, to meet projected demand. It is also preparing infrastructure and service upgrades connected to Abu Dhabi's Zayed International Airport, whose terminal expansion tripled annual capacity to 45 million passengers, reinforcing the city's role as a global hub. On the route front, 16 further destinations have been announced for 2025, complementing an already swift rollout of 27 new routes. The A321LR rollout from August will unlock First Class on single‑aisle sectors, with an upgraded passenger experience including concierge transfers, chauffeur services and luggage‑free travel in Abu Dhabi. Etihad's turnaround, driven by disciplined execution of its 'Journey 2030' strategy, has paid off. With record profits, growing customer satisfaction and a fleet age structure among the youngest globally, the airline is moving ahead of Gulf competitors as a stronger, customer‑centric global carrier.
Al Etihad
18-07-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Etihad Airways welcomes 20 million passengers, over 100 aircraft
18 July 2025 18:47 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD) Etihad continues to soar with a record-breaking year, reaching new milestones for the first time in the airline's Neves, Chief Executive Officer at Etihad Airways, commented, 'The last 12 months have seen Etihad flying high, breaking records and achieving new milestones at an astonishing a record Q1, with Dh685 million profit and our highest ever customer satisfaction scores, Etihad has now welcomed more than 20 million guests in the last year, for the first time in the airline's history.'We continue our upward trajectory as part of a broader growth story that has seen our annual passenger numbers more than double from 10 million to 20 million in just two and a half years. This sustained growth is driven by expanding demand, a dynamic global network, and a clear strategic focus.' He added, 'We are the only airline in the region growing at this pace and we have no intention of slowing down. 2025 is proving to be our biggest year yet.'Achieving another milestone, Etihad has introduced three more aircraft into its expanding fleet, bringing the operational fleet size to more than 100 aircraft. The airline welcomed back its seventh Airbus A380 to service and received a brand-new Boeing B787-9 delivered from Charleston, US, with an all-Emirati flight crew. Etihad also received the first of three brand-new Airbus 350-1000s delivered one of the youngest aircraft fleets in the industry, Etihad continues to make strategic investments to meet the overwhelming demand from guests. The airline is expecting to receive 18 additional new aircraft in 2025, including the delivery of its new A321LR fleet which will enter into service from 1 luxury, the new A321LR fleet will offer First Suites, fully lie-flat Business seats, 4K screens and high-speed super Wi-Fi in all cabins, allowing guests to stay connected via messages, calls and stream while in the air. Earlier this year, Etihad announced the order of 28 wide-body aircraft from Boeing to support its plans for growth and connectivity, operational efficiency and guest the airline's recent announcement of seven additional destinations, Etihad will have added 27 new routes this year, a remarkable milestone that reflects its ambition and commitment to increase the number of visitors to Abu to almost 90 destinations worldwide by the end of 2025, leveraging its strategic geographical advantage connecting Europe and Asia, this expansion is part of Etihad's ongoing strategy to support the economic growth of Abu achievements are a huge step toward the goals the Etihad set out in its ambitious growth strategy which would see the network grow to more than 125 destinations, fleet to more than 170 aircraft, and passenger numbers to 38 million per year, by 2030. With rapid growth in every direction, the airline is set to exceed the expectations of its seven-year growth plan, a reflection of demand and extraordinary customer satisfaction. Etihad's success is a reflection of Abu Dhabi's strong aviation sector which continues to demonstrate robust growth and strategic momentum, underscoring its position as a leading global gateway for passengers and cargo.
