Etihad Airways capped off an exceptional 2025 by securing more than 25 prestigious international awards, earning global recognition across every facet of its operations—from cabin design and onboard catering to safety, customer experience, and operational excellence.
The airline concluded the year with a landmark achievement, becoming only the fourth carrier worldwide—and the first in the region—to receive the Seven-Star Plus Safety Rating from Airline Ratings, the highest distinction within the organisation’s global safety assessment framework.
Earlier in the year, Etihad claimed three major honours at the World Travel Awards Grand Final in Bahrain, winning World’s Leading Airline Customer Experience, World’s Leading Airline Economy Class, and World’s Leading Airline Lounge – Business Class for its Premium Lounge at Zayed International Airport.
Regional accolades followed at the Middle East World Travel Awards in October, where Etihad secured five titles, including Middle East’s Leading Airline for Customer Experience and Economy Class, alongside awards for Best Inflight Entertainment, Business Class Lounge, and Cabin Crew. The cabin crew recognition highlighted the professionalism and dedication of Etihad’s frontline teams.
Etihad was also awarded Five Star Global Airline status for 2026 by APEX, placing it among an elite group of airlines worldwide. Meanwhile, the AirHelp Score 2025 ranked Etihad second globally with a score of 8.07 out of 10, reflecting strong performance in punctuality, customer satisfaction, and claims processing across more than 60 countries.
Further recognition came from Airline Ratings, which listed Etihad among the world’s top five safest full-service airlines, while Airline Economics named it Aviation 100 MAE Airline of the Year 2025 at Growth Frontiers Dubai.
These achievements coincide with continued multi-billion-dollar investments aimed at enhancing the end-to-end guest experience. Etihad’s focus on continuous improvement has driven increases in its Net Promoter Score for three consecutive years, underscoring growing customer satisfaction and loyalty.
In 2025, Etihad introduced the Airbus A321LR, bringing lie-flat seating and premium services to mid-range routes. Its flagship A380 aircraft continues to feature The Residence, the only three-room suite in commercial aviation, setting new standards in luxury travel.
Operating from Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport—widely recognised as one of the world’s leading airport facilities—Etihad offers a seamless travel experience supported by world-class lounges and advanced terminal infrastructure.
The airline also received multiple awards for onboard dining, cabin comfort, design, and amenity kits, including recognition from Skytrax, Business Traveller Middle East, APEX, The Design Air, PAX International, TravelPlus, and Onboard Hospitality.
Beyond passenger services, Etihad’s cargo division was honoured for customer centricity and innovation, earning accolades at the Customer Centricity World Series and the STAT Times International Awards for Air Cargo Excellence.
Commenting on the achievement, Etihad Airways Chief Executive Officer Antonoaldo Neves said the awards reflect the passion, dedication, and teamwork of the entire Etihad family, reaffirming the airline’s commitment to delivering exceptional experiences across every journey.
