One Airline that is Having its Best Year Ever

One Airline that is Having its Best Year Ever

Most airlines are struggling this year. In fact, that might even be an understatement. Many low-cost carriers have simply faded away, unable to keep up with the increasing cost of operation. Fuel charges have led to more expensive airfares and a decreasing amount of travelers. Even major airlines like Northwest have filed for bankruptcy and have had to merge (in Northwest's case, with Delta) in order to continue operating. Other airlines have resorted to charging passengers to check baggage and even to get a drink on the plane (American Airlines does this). Though major low-cost carriers like Southwest and Jet Blue have managed to survive, even they are cutting flights on certain routes in order assure that their heads stay above water.

But one airline is having a banner year. Upstart Etihad Airways has expanded its routes as its passenger numbers have continued to grow. The carrier, based in the Persian Gulf Emirate of Abu Dhabi, has experienced a 35% jump in the number of customers it services in just one year. The airline plans to grow and become a worldwide brand in the near future.

Etihad performed well on most of its routes. Flights to Asia and Australia were especially successful, as was service to Europe. Even long-haul routes between the Middle East and New York and Toronto were routinely filled to more than 80% capacity. The company is understandably confident because of its performance and has big plans to unseat Emirates as the premiere upscale airline in the Middle East.

Etihad plans to add more routes to the US, Canada and Europe and is already in the process of opening up service to Beijing and Moscow. While it is not yet a household name, Etihad certainly has a head start on the world's struggling airlines. A few more years like 2008 and the airline will be up there with Cathay Pacific and Quantas in terms of recognition and quality.