ABU DHABI, 19 February 2026: Etihad Airways released its traffic statistics for January 2026 earlier this week, which continues the strong momentum that defined a record-breaking 2025.
The airline served 2.2 million passengers in January, a 29% increase compared with January 2025, when 1.7 million guests flew with Etihad.
Passenger load factor reached 89.9% for the month, up from 89.1% a year earlier, reflecting sustained demand across the network and continued efficiency in capacity management.
Etihad’s operating fleet stood at 127 aircraft at the start of 2026, serving a network of 110 destinations worldwide.
Etihad Airways, Chief Executive Officer Antonoaldo Neves said: “January has been a strong start to 2026, maintaining load factors above 89% 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.”
In January, the airline announced new services to Luxembourg and Calgary – two cities that, for the first time, have a direct connection to Abu Dhabi.
Rounded figures
[1] Including short-term aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance (“ACMI”) leases. The operating fleet includes freighters.
[2] Including seasonal and cargo routes, as well as destinations scheduled to begin operation within the next 12 months. Excluding charter destinations. Of these, 93 were operated in January.
(Source: Etihad)
