Etihad Airways is embarking on a transformative journey that includes ambitious growth targets and a strong commitment to fostering local talent, according to CEO Antonoaldo Neves. The airline’s strategic plan for the coming years, shared during a recent conversation, highlights an expanding network supported by a steady influx of new aircraft, with plans to increase its workforce by 2 000 employees annually over the next few years.

Currently, Etihad has grown its fleet from approximately 70 aircraft in 2022 to 100, with further expansion on the horizon. Neves announced, “We’re going to be adding 20 planes yearly for the next four to five years,” emphasizing the airline’s aggressive growth strategy.

In addition to fleet expansion, Neves discussed the recent deal with Boeing for 28 new long-haul aircraft, comprising a mix of B787 and B777X models. He noted that purchasing new planes has been a regular activity for the airline, stating, “We’ve been buying planes, I would say, almost every month for the past two years.” This strategic acquisition is crucial, as many of the new aircraft are expected to arrive after 2030.

Neves also addressed the impact of the U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent visit, clarifying that the discussions were broader than just Etihad’s interests. He explained that the focus was on the overall relationship between the UAE and the United States, highlighting the collaborative ventures that exist and mentioning the naming rights agreement for Etihad Park in Queens, New York.

The CEO confirmed that the order for the Boeing 777Xs aligns with the airline’s growth strategy and is part of a six-month discussion preceding the announcement. He mentioned the potential of the B777X as a replacement for the A380, stating, “The 777x is a good candidate to replace the A380 if we decide to retire it.” He emphasized the need for flexibility in fleet management to adapt to future demands.

Neves also provided insights into Etihad’s ambitious retrofit program aimed at standardizing its fleet by 2028, which includes the introduction of the Airbus A321LR. He described the retrofit as a “massive organizational investment,” noting that they have already begun the process by ordering new seats and finalizing designs.

Regarding market conditions, Neves expressed confidence in the demand for travel to the U.S., downplaying concerns over ongoing trade tensions. He stated, “I’ve learned not to react to short-term volatility in my career,” emphasizing the airline’s resilience and adaptability in the face of economic fluctuations.

As for the Airbus A321LR, Neves indicated that it will serve a variety of destinations, including Geneva, Krabi, Riyadh, Mumbai, and Delhi, aligning with the airline’s goal to maximize operational efficiency. He also mentioned plans for a high-density version of the A321 that will include business and first-class seating options.