Etihad Airways CEO states IPO decision lies with shareholder

Etihad Airways CEO Says IPO Decision Rest with Shareholder, Growth Strategy Continues

Etihad Airways CEO, Antonoaldo Neves, clarified that the decision to move forward with an initial public offering (IPO) will ultimately be made by the airline’s shareholder, with many industry analysts speculating that an announcement could come soon.Despite the ongoing negotiations about the future IPO, Neves did not disclose a precise timeline.

Speaking at the Arabian Travel Market conference in Dubai, Neves outlined the airline’s ambitious growth trajectory, stating that Etihad is moving on with an aggressive expansion strategy despite external hurdles such as fluctuating oil prices and US tariffs. Last year, Etihad announced a $7 billion investment plan aimed at doubling its fleet by 2030.

Neves projected a 15% to 20% growth this year and highlighted that the airline’s fleet is set to reach 100 aircraft, with 20 to 22 new planes joining this year. Over the following years, Etihad plans to add 20 aircraft annually to meet its goal of a 170-plane fleet, aiming to carry between 30 and 33 million passengers by 2030.

As part of its growth strategy, the airline intends to improve its premium service offerings, including investments in first and business class cabins, and recently presented its Airbus A321LR at the ATM, which would provide passengers “wide-body comfort on short and medium-haul routes.” Etihad’s continued investments indicate its desire to maintain a strong position in the increasingly competitive aviation industry.