Abu dhabi: Etihad Airways has celebrated an exceptional year by securing more than 25 international awards throughout 2025, with accolades acknowledging various aspects of the airline's guest experience, including cabin design, onboard catering, safety, and operational excellence.
According to Emirates News Agency, the airline achieved a significant milestone by becoming only the fourth airline globally, and the first in the region, to earn the Seven-Star Plus Safety Rating from Airline Ratings, the highest honor in the renowned safety ranking system.
Etihad's string of victories continued at the World Travel Awards Grand Final Gala Ceremony held in Bahrain, where the airline claimed three major global titles: 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.
In October, the airline dominated the Middle East World Travel Awards, winning five regional titles, including Middle East's Leading Airline in Customer Experience and Economy Class. Etihad was also recognized for the region's best Inflight Entertainment, Business Class Lounge, and Cabin Crew, underscoring the commitment and professionalism of its frontline teams.
Etihad's achievements were further affirmed when APEX awarded the airline Five Star Global Airline status for 2026, placing it among an esteemed group of global carriers. The AirHelp Score 2025 positioned Etihad second worldwide, with an impressive 8.07 out of 10, showcasing its operational excellence during a period of rapid growth.
The airline's continued investment in enhancing customer experience has led to Net Promoter Score increases for three consecutive years, reflecting growing guest satisfaction and loyalty. Innovations in 2025 included the introduction of the Airbus A321LR, offering lie-flat seating and premium service on mid-range routes, alongside the continued luxury of The Residence on A380 aircraft.
Operating from Abu Dhabi's Zayed International Airport, Etihad offers a seamless journey for guests, featuring world-class lounges and state-of-the-art terminal amenities. Skytrax awarded Etihad for Best First Class Onboard Catering in the Middle East, and Business Traveller Middle East recognized the airline for Best Cabin Crew and Best Economy Class.
Etihad's commitment to design excellence was recognized by APEX Future Travel Experience EMEA, awarding it Best in Seat Comfort in the Middle East. The Design Air named the airline Design Airline of the Year Middle East, celebrating its distinctive interior design approach.
Further accolades included recognition for amenity kits and cabin products by PAX International Awards and TravelPlus Awards. The Onboard Hospitality Awards honored Etihad's First Class amenity kits and innovative Economy Self Securing Blanket and Large Pillow.
The airline's cargo division was also acknowledged with awards such as Customer Centricity in B2B at the Customer Centricity World Series and two honors at the STAT Times International Awards for Air Cargo Excellence.
Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, expressed pride in the airline's achievements, stating, "Winning over 25 international awards in a single year is extraordinary recognition of our entire Etihad family's passion and commitment to excellence. From the World Travel Awards to APEX Five Star status, from Skytrax to AirHelp's global rankings, these honors reflect our dedication to delivering exceptional experiences across every cabin, every route and every part of our guests' journeys."