Etihad Considers New Orders for Airbus A350 and A330neo Amid Profit Growth
Etihad Airways is considering a new order for A350 and A330neo aircraft from Airbus at the upcoming Dubai Airshow, as reported by industry sources.
Recent financial results indicate that Etihad achieved a remarkable profit of $463 million after tax during the first nine months of 2025, marking a 26% increase from $368 million in the same timeframe last year.
Details about this potential order have emerged, but neither Etihad nor Airbus has officially commented on the discussions.
Financial Performance Highlight
On November 14, 2025, Etihad’s CEO, Antonoaldo Neves, remarked on the airline’s impressive financial performance, stating that it has set a new benchmark for the airline industry. He emphasized the airline’s contributions to nearly half of the UAE’s total passenger growth. Neves noted, “We’re expanding, elevating the guest experience, and maintaining our focus on efficiency and performance.”
Record-Breaking Results
Etihad described its financial outcomes as the “strongest nine-month results in history,” with total revenues hitting $5.9 billion between January and September 2025, an 18% increase from the previous year’s $5 billion.
The surge in passenger revenue stemmed from enhanced capacity, robust demand, and an improved network. Additionally, cargo revenue saw growth due to increased capacity and higher volumes.
Growth in Key Metrics
The airline reported a 27% year-on-year increase in EBITDA, reaching $1.2 billion and achieving an improved margin of 20%. Etihad also transported a record 16.1 million passengers in the first nine months of 2025, the highest figure in its history.
To support its expansion, the fleet grew to 115 aircraft, with three A321LRs, three Boeing 787s, two A350s, and a single A320 added to the lineup.
Workforce Expansion
In line with its growth strategy, Etihad welcomed over 2,600 new employees in the first nine months of 2025, which included more than 200 pilots and 1,500 cabin crew members.
As the airline eyes new aircraft acquisitions, how do you see this impacting its future growth and customer experience?
