Driven by robust passenger revenue, Etihad Airways has posted a record first-quarter (Q1) profit after tax of AED526 million ($143 million), a massive spike on Q1 2023, symbolising a solid start for the 2024 financial year.
Total revenue increased by AED987 million, from AED4.75 billion in Q1 2023 to AED5.74 billion in Q1 2024, reflecting an increase in network capacity and passenger numbers.
The airline carried 4.2 million passengers over the quarter, up 41% year-on-year. The average passenger load factor stands at 86% for Q1 2024 and remains unchanged compared to the first quarter of last year. Revenue from cargo and other sources remained broadly stable over the same period.
Operational efficiency
The airline continues to improve its operational efficiency with decreasing unit cost from the same quarter last year (CASK and CASK ex-fuel reduced by 9% and 11%, respectively).
Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “We are pleased to report a strong start to the financial year 2024, with our first quarter earnings equivalent to our total net income for the entire financial year 2023 as we continue our margin expansion journey. We have maintained our resilience and our focus on customer service and growth while continuing to improve our commitment to efficiency.
“This significant profit increase was achieved even with the holy month of Ramadan starting in early March this year, compared to late March last year, demonstrating the adaptability of our business.
“Our plans are set to expand our network and enhance our offerings while connecting an ever-greater number of people to and via Abu Dhabi. I would like to extend my deepest thanks to all our employees whose hard work and dedication have been crucial in achieving these results.”
Network optimisation
During this period, Etihad optimised its network by enhancing routes and increasing frequencies to key destinations. The airline also launched new flights to Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, and Boston, and announced additional routes to Antalya and Jaipur. The additional capacity has led to a 34% increase in Etihad's total weekly flights for the upcoming peak summer period, growing from 642 last year to 858 in 2024.
The airline has continued to play a pivotal role in supporting Abu Dhabi's tourism sector, driving a 43% increase in inbound point-to-point traffic compared to the first quarter of 2023.
In its first quarter operating from its new terminal at Zayed International Airport, the airline has seen significant improvements in customer satisfaction, driven by enhanced efficiencies across all passenger touchpoints. Upgraded lounge facilities now offer more comfort and exclusive services, enhancing the overall travel experience. Additionally, streamlined check-in processes and smoother transfers have contributed positively to customer feedback.
Key Q1 2024 highlights a glance
•Total revenue growth: Total revenue has increased primarily due to a significant boost in passenger revenue, which rose by AED966 million ($263 million), a 25% increase from the previous year.
•Cargo revenue: Revenue from cargo has maintained its robust level year-on-year, supported by expanding partnerships such as its strategic agreement with SF Airlines to link global hubs, extending Etihad's network in Asia.
•Costs: Improved operational efficiency, with CASK and CASK ex-fuel decreased by 9% and 11% respectively.
•Profit after tax: The strong surge in passenger revenue, combined with reduced net finance costs, drove the increase in profit after tax for the first quarter of 2024 to AED526 million ($143 million), compared to AED59 million ($16 million) in the corresponding period in 2023.
•Capacity growth: the first quarter of 2024 saw an expansion in capacity, as evidenced by substantial growth in Available Seat Kilometres (ASK) and passenger numbers, increasing by 35% and 41% respectively compared to the same period in 2023.
•Operating fleet: Etihad’s operating fleet grew from 75 to 89 aircraft over the same quarter last year, including the incorporation of three new 787s in February 2024.--TradeArabia News Service
