Etihad Airways, the UAE's national airlines, reported a 52 percent jump in annual profits Thursday — at $73 million from $48 million the previous year — after the company expanded its carriers and increased the passengers, Reuters reported.
The airline's revenue rose 27 percent, or $7.6 billion, from more passengers, cargo and partnerships with airlines this year. Cargo revenue increased 19 percent, or $1.11 billion, and sales from partner airlines rose 38 percent, or $1.13 billion.
Etihad in its statement said its investment in other carriers, such as minority stakes including Air Serbia, Ireland's Aer Lingus and India's Jet Airways have increased sales in key markets. The airline is the largest Middle East carrier that now reaches 500 destinations.
Etihad carried 14.8 million passengers in 2014, up 22 percent from the previous year. The airline has 200 aircraft with options and purchase rights for another 66.
The company increased capacity on 23 routes and added ten new destinations last year.
