Etihad Airways launches the first international summer program for airport operations trainees

ABU DHABI, 3rd July, 2017 (WAM) – Etihad Airways launched the first international summer program for airport operations trainees from the highest performing Emirati talent, in a step that reflects its commitment to qualifying a new generation of Emirati specialists capable of leading the future of airport operations in accordance with the highest international standards.

According to a press release issued today, the program complements the foundational phase of the airport operations and ground operations programs, as it gives participants the opportunity to assume actual operational responsibilities and gain field experiences in international work environments, which contributes to refining their skills and qualifying them for a professional career that extends across the growing network of Etihad destinations around the world.

The airport programs are based on a joint foundation phase that combines structured academic training with practical training at Zayed International Airport, where trainees move between the most prominent front-line operational functions, including check-in, aircraft boarding, transit services, baggage operations, and arrival halls, before moving on to supervisory roles in airport operations.

Participants gain experience in network operations and flight routing, giving them a comprehensive understanding of the operational system in the aviation sector.

After successfully completing the foundation phase, this week the first batch of seven Emirati nationals joined the International Summer Program, where they will begin their duties within the Etihad teams in a number of the most prominent international stations, including Copenhagen, Paris, Phuket, and Kuala Lumpur, in addition to other destinations that were chosen due to the density of passenger traffic they witness during the summer travel season, where participants will be able to apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired in Abu Dhabi within live operational environments during the most active travel periods.

Dr. Nadia Bastaki, CEO of Human Resources, Government and Corporate Affairs at Etihad Airways, said that Emirati competencies represent the basic pillar of Etihad’s plans for sustainable growth, and since the launch of our Emiratization strategy last year, we have been keen to develop programs that combine operational training with practical international experience, which opens broader horizons for the ambitions of our Emirati cadres, enhances their capabilities, and gives them the skills, confidence, and global vision that will enable them to thrive and contribute to shaping the future of the aviation sector.

Captain Majid Al Marzouqi, Chief Operating Officer and Guest Experience at Etihad Airways, said: “Every exceptional journey begins at the airport, and our airport programs work to prepare the next generation of Emirati talent specialized in airport operations, who will play a pivotal role in providing safe, highly efficient, world-class operations. Through practical experience across our global network, participants gain advanced operational insights, exchange knowledge with colleagues from around the world, and experience diverse operational and cultural environments.” During these international missions, the people of the country are the best ambassadors for their country on the global stage, and at every station they reflect the values ​​of professionalism, excellence, and hospitality that distinguish Etihad Airways and the UAE.

The airport and ground operations programs form part of Etihad Airways’ comprehensive Emiratization strategy, which provides career paths for citizens, in parallel with supporting the carrier’s continued operational growth.

According to the carrier, with the expansion of Etihad’s network of destinations, the importance of preparing Emirati competencies with global operational experience capable of keeping pace with this growth increases. Today, a number of graduates of Etihad Airways’ programs lead the company’s operations in stations extending across East Asia, Europe, the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, and North Africa, while the first batch of the international summer training program represents a new step towards preparing a new generation of Emiratis who are able to represent the UAE and lead Etihad Airways’ operations globally.

As Etihad Airways continues to consolidate Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global aviation hub, the program continues its role in preparing the next generation of Emirati leaders in the aviation sector.

Etihad invites Emirati citizens who are passionate about the world of aviation and operational excellence to join the program and embark on a career path that combines global training and international experience, enabling them to represent the UAE as its ambassadors on the global stage.

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