Etihad Airways soars with strategic growth plans

Etihad Airways' CEO, Antonoaldo Neves, indicated that the decision on a potential Initial Public Offering (IPO) lies with its shareholder, ADQ, as speculation increases that an announcement might be imminent this quarter. The Abu Dhabi-based airline has engaged in market discussions about the IPO without confirming a specific timeline. At the Arabian Travel Market conference in Dubai, Neves shared insights on continuing with an aggressive growth strategy despite market fluctuations influenced by U.S. tariffs and oil price volatility. Etihad has announced an ambitious $7 billion investment over five years aimed at doubling its fleet size by 2030. The CEO projects a 15% to 20% growth this year, adding 20 to 22 aircraft to reach a fleet of 100 by year-end. Looking ahead, Etihad plans to expand its fleet by 20 planes annually, targeting a total of 170 aircraft and accommodating 30 to 33 million passengers by 2030. The airline, which unveiled its Airbus A321LR at the event, intends to strengthen its luxury travel offerings by investing in first and business class segments.