Etihad

Etihad Airways is the national airline of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It was founded on 11 July 2003 and began operations on 5 November 2003. The airline is headquartered in Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi, near Zayed International Airport, which serves as its hub. It is the second-largest airline in the UAE after Emirates. The airline operates passenger and cargo flights to 86 destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America.

Etihad Airways has a fleet of 97 aircraft, including Airbus and Boeing models. It also operates Etihad Cargo and Etihad Holidays. The airline has a frequent flyer programme called Etihad Guest. Its parent company is Etihad Aviation Group.

In its early years, Etihad placed large aircraft orders, including Boeing 787s, 777s, and Airbus A380s. It reported its first profit in 2011. The airline formed an equity alliance by investing in Air Berlin, Air Serbia, Air Seychelles, Alitalia, and other carriers. Many of these investments later resulted in financial losses.

Etihad faced challenges due to its failed airline investments and reported significant losses from 2016 to 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic further impacted operations, leading to job cuts and financial restructuring. The airline recorded losses of $1.7 billion in 2020 but returned to profitability in 2022.

The airline sponsors major sports teams and events, including Manchester City FC and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. It operates a cargo division with a dedicated fleet. Etihad also has codeshare agreements with multiple international airlines.

Etihad Airways has introduced premium travel options such as The Residence and First Apartment on its Airbus A380s. It also provides Business Studios and Economy Smart Seats. The airline continues to expand and add new destinations while improving financial performance.

Etihad Airways was established on 11 July 2003 through an Amiri decree issued by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, aiming to create a national airline for Abu Dhabi. The airline was launched with a ceremonial flight to Al Ain on 5 November 2003, followed by its first commercial service to Beirut on 12 November 2003. It started with an initial investment of AED 500 million and was envisioned to compete in the global aviation market.

In June 2004, Etihad placed an $8 billion aircraft order for Boeing 777s and Airbus A380s, marking the beginning of rapid fleet expansion. Over the next decade, the airline introduced more international routes, increasing its global presence. In 2008, at the Farnborough Airshow, it made further orders, including Boeing 787s and 777s, securing future fleet growth.

By 2011, Etihad reported its first annual net profit of $14 million, following a strategic plan initiated in 2006 by CEO James Hogan. That same year, the airline began acquiring stakes in other airlines, purchasing a 29.21% stake in Air Berlin, 40% in Air Seychelles, 2.987% in Aer Lingus, and 10% in Virgin Australia. In 2013, Etihad acquired a 49% stake in Jat Airways, later rebranded as Air Serbia. It also purchased a 24% stake in Jet Airways and a 33.3% stake in Darwin Airline, renamed Etihad Regional. In 2014, the airline acquired a 49% stake in Alitalia. In 2015, it launched the Etihad Airways Partners alliance, which included several of these airlines. However, the alliance was dissolved in 2018 after several partners faced financial struggles.

Between 2016 and 2019, Etihad faced financial difficulties due to unsuccessful investments in struggling airlines. The company reported a $1.87 billion loss in 2016. In 2017, both its CEO and CFO stepped down. Air Berlin and Alitalia declared bankruptcy that same year, resulting in further financial strain. Etihad continued to report losses in 2018 and 2019, with the airline downsizing its workforce and restructuring operations.

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted global aviation, leading to the grounding of most of Etihad’s fleet and a significant reduction in operations. The airline laid off over 1,000 employees and recorded a $1.7 billion loss for the year. Despite the challenges, Etihad operated cargo flights and repatriation services. By February 2021, it became the first airline to vaccinate all its pilots and cabin crew against COVID-19. The airline also exited its stake in Air Seychelles in 2021.

In 2022, Etihad reported a return to profitability, recording a $296 million profit in the first half of the year. Passenger demand increased, allowing the airline to resume services on key routes. Etihad was transferred to the Abu Dhabi sovereign wealth fund, ADQ, alongside other aviation-related businesses. The airline reintroduced some of its Airbus A380s on routes to London and later expanded them to New York and Paris.

In 2023, the airline announced further expansion plans, introducing new routes, including flights to Algiers, Atlanta, Hong Kong, and Taipei. The airline continued to improve its financial performance, reporting a net profit and increased passenger traffic.

By 2024, Etihad will focus on further network expansion, adding more destinations and resuming its growth strategy. It continued redeploying its Airbus A380 fleet, introducing services to Singapore and expanding in key international markets. The airline also announced a new sustainability initiative, working towards carbon reduction and improved fuel efficiency.

As of 2025, Etihad Airways operates a fleet of 97 aircraft, serving 86 destinations worldwide. It continues to expand its global reach while maintaining financial stability. The airline remains an essential carrier in the Middle East, focusing on efficiency, sustainability, and long-term strategic growth.

Etihad Airways aims to connect the world through Abu Dhabi by providing safe, reliable, and efficient air travel. The airline focuses on delivering high-quality service, ensuring passenger comfort, and maintaining operational excellence. It strives to support the growth of the UAE by contributing to the economy and tourism sector. Sustainability is a key focus, with efforts to reduce carbon emissions and enhance fuel efficiency. Etihad also invests in innovation and technology to improve travel experiences. The airline is committed to safety, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement while expanding its global network and strengthening partnerships with other airlines.

Etihad Airways envisions becoming a leading global airline known for innovation, sustainability, and world-class service. It aims to create seamless travel experiences through advanced technology and exceptional customer service. The airline focuses on sustainable aviation practices, reducing its environmental impact, and supporting global travel needs. Etihad seeks to strengthen its position as a key carrier in the Middle East while expanding its global reach. It aims to contribute to Abu Dhabi’s economic development and remain a trusted airline for passengers and partners. The vision includes continuous growth, efficiency, and ensuring safe, comfortable, and responsible air travel worldwide.

Etihad Airways has received several awards for its service, innovation, and sustainability. It has been recognised as the World’s Leading Airline multiple times at the World Travel Awards. The airline’s First Class Apartment on the Airbus A380 was named the World’s Best First Class by Skytrax. It has also won awards for its cabin crew service, in-flight entertainment, and airport lounges. Etihad has been recognised for its sustainability efforts, including reducing carbon emissions. The airline has also received safety certifications and high ratings for operational excellence. These awards highlight Etihad’s commitment to providing high-quality service and innovation in aviation.

Etihad Airways offers a range of products and services to meet the needs of different types of travellers. The airline provides premium and economy class seating options, in-flight entertainment, loyalty programmes, and cargo services. It also offers holiday packages, business travel solutions, and codeshare agreements with other airlines to expand its network.

Cabin Classes

Etihad Airways provides different cabin classes to suit various travel preferences and budgets.

The Residence (Airbus A380 Only)
The Residence is the most luxurious offering by Etihad, available only on Airbus A380 aircraft. It is a private three-room suite that includes a living room, bedroom, and an en-suite shower. The suite offers a two-seater reclining sofa, a double bed, a 32-inch TV, and an in-flight chef. This product is designed for travellers looking for the highest level of privacy and comfort.

First Class – The Apartment (Airbus A380) and First Suite (Boeing 787-9)
The First Apartment, available on the Airbus A380, provides a private suite with a reclining chair, a full-length ottoman that converts into a bed, and a personal wardrobe. It also includes a vanity cabinet, a minibar, and a 24-inch entertainment screen. The First Suite, available on the Boeing 787-9, offers similar features with a fully flat bed, sliding privacy doors, and premium dining options.

Business Class – Business Studio
The Business Studio is available on Airbus A380, Boeing 787-9, and Boeing 787-10 aircraft. It features a fully flat bed, a 22-inch seat, and an 18-inch entertainment screen. The seats are arranged in a 1-2-1 layout, ensuring every passenger has direct aisle access. Business Class passengers also receive priority check-in, lounge access, and premium dining services.

Economy Class – Economy Smart Seat
The Economy Smart Seat provides a comfortable experience with adjustable headrests, extra legroom options, and personal entertainment screens. On the Airbus A380, the seats are 19 inches wide, while on the Boeing 787s, they are 17 inches wide. The cabin includes USB charging ports, seat-back entertainment screens, and meal services.

In-Flight Entertainment and Connectivity

Etihad Airways offers in-flight entertainment systems called E-BOX, which provide movies, TV shows, music, and games. Passengers can also access Wi-Fi on selected flights for browsing and communication. Some aircraft feature live TV for real-time updates on news and sports.

Loyalty Programme – Etihad Guest

Etihad Guest is the airline’s frequent flyer programme, allowing members to earn miles on flights, partner airlines, and other purchases. Members can redeem miles for flight upgrades, hotel stays, car rentals, and shopping. The programme has multiple tiers, including Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum, with increasing benefits such as extra baggage allowance, lounge access, and priority boarding.

Etihad Cargo

Etihad Cargo provides freight transport services for businesses and individuals. The airline operates a fleet of dedicated cargo aircraft and offers services for general cargo, pharmaceuticals, perishables, and express shipments. The cargo hub at Zayed International Airport is equipped to handle large volumes of freight efficiently.

Etihad Holidays

Etihad Holidays offers travel packages that include flights, hotels, and experiences in various destinations. These packages cater to families, couples, and business travellers, providing customisable options for a complete travel experience.

Codeshare Agreements and Partner Airlines

Etihad has codeshare agreements with several international airlines, allowing passengers to book seamless connections to multiple destinations. These partnerships help expand Etihad’s network and provide more travel options.