Emirates reported a ‘record’ profit of $5.2 billion on Thursday (8 May), following the release of its 2024-25 annual report.
The Dubai-based carrier, which also owns air services provider dnata, said the positive result marked a 20 per cent year-on-year increase in profit, with revenues of $34.9 billion for its 2024-25 financial year, which ended on 31 March 2025.
Emirates carried 53.7 million passengers during the period, up 3 per cent year-on-year, following “robust” demand across all segments and ongoing investment in its premium offering.
Seat capacity for the period was up 4 per cent, while load factor came in at 78.9 per cent, marking a slight decline from 79.9 per cent a year prior.
In a statement, the carrier said its profit margin for the year – coming in at 14.9 per cent – represented “the best performance in the airline’s history”. It also claimed to be the most profitable aviation group globally in the 2024-25 reporting period.
Emirates Group chairman and CEO, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, said: “Through the year, Emirates and dnata were able to move quickly to meet the strong demand for air transport services across markets and win over customers - thanks to our non-stop investments in our people, in building partnerships, and in delivering great products and services.
Following the maiden voyage of its new A350 aircraft earlier this year, the carrier expects to take delivery of an additional 16 A350s in 2025-26, while also continuing to retrofit its A380, 777 and A350 fleet.
The carrier also remained optimistic about its 2025-26 outlook.
“While some markets are jittery about trade and travel restrictions, volatility is not new in our industry. We simply adapt and navigate around these challenges,” Sheikh Ahmed said. “Our excellent financial standing enables us to continue building on and scaling up from our successful business models.”