Etihad Airways Sweeps Over 25 Global Awards in Landmark 2025

Etihad Airways has capped off an exceptional 2025 by securing more than 25 prestigious international awards, reinforcing its position as one of the world’s leading airlines. The accolades span safety, customer experience, cabin design, onboard catering, operational excellence and cargo services, reflecting the airline’s all-round performance during a year of rapid growth and innovation.

The highlight of the year came when Etihad became just the fourth airline globally—and the first in the Middle East—to earn the Seven-Star Plus Safety Rating from Airline Ratings, the highest recognition in the global aviation safety system. The airline was also ranked among the world’s top five safest full-service carriers.

Etihad further strengthened its global reputation at the World Travel Awards Grand Final in Bahrain, where it won three top honours: 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.

Regionally, the airline dominated the Middle East World Travel Awards with five major wins, including Leading Airline for Customer Experience and Economy Class, along with awards for Inflight Entertainment, Business Class Lounge and Cabin Crew, recognising the professionalism of its frontline teams.

Industry recognition continued with APEX awarding Etihad Five Star Global Airline status for 2026, while the AirHelp Score 2025 ranked the carrier second worldwide, scoring an impressive 8.07 out of 10 for punctuality, customer satisfaction and claims handling. Airline Economics also named Etihad Aviation 100 MAE Airline of the Year 2025.

These honours coincide with major investments in product and service enhancements. In 2025, Etihad introduced the Airbus A321LR, bringing lie-flat seating and premium service to mid-range routes, while its flagship A380 continues to offer The Residence, the only three-room suite in commercial aviation.

Operating from Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport, the airline delivers a seamless end-to-end journey supported by award-winning lounges and modern terminal facilities. Additional accolades from Skytrax, Business Traveller Middle East, APEX Future Travel Experience and The Design Air highlighted Etihad’s excellence in catering, seat comfort, cabin crew service and interior design.

Etihad also received multiple awards for its amenity kits and cabin innovations, including recognition for children’s kits, First Class designs, and enhanced Economy Class comfort products. Its cargo division was similarly honoured for customer-centric and innovative logistics solutions.

Commenting on the achievement, CEO Antonoaldo Neves said the awards reflect the passion, dedication and teamwork of the entire Etihad family, underscoring the airline’s commitment to delivering outstanding experiences across every journey.