Etihad Airways growing network together with codeshare and strategic partnerships have boosted the airlines second quarter results by 31 percent in 2012 to US$1.25 billion.

Results for this period saw record passenger numbers climb 34 percent to top 2.55 million, surging ahead of capacity increases.

The growth contributes to a 30 percent increase in revenue for the first half of 2012 totalling US$2.24 billion and passenger numbers of 4.89 million for the half year.

Adding to its minority shareholdings in airberlin and Air Seychelles, Etihad Airways took minority equity stakes during the second quarter in Virgin Australia and Aer Lingus.

The joint effort of these airlines saw 72 million passengers fly on 376 aircraft generating more than US$14 billion in revenue in 2011.

Etihad Airways president and chief executive officer James Hogan said the increases are a result of strategic partnerships and continued focus on an organic growth plan.

New routes launched by the airline during the quarter brought the direct network total of cities served to 87, with new codeshare agreements bringing the network up to 308 destinations.

Etihad is also investing in its marketing with the launch of its recent ad campaign to drive awareness of its brand, along with improving products and services such as airport lounges and the introduction of onboard chefs in its Diamond First class cabin.

Mr Hogan commented on the airlines performance during a tough period saying “we have been able to add more passengers than ever before, with growth outstripping our capacity increases."

Despite the challenging market conditions reported last month by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Mr Hogan said Etihad Airways was on track for a profitable full year performance for the second year running.