Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has announced a significant pilot recruitment campaign to support its ambitious growth strategy. The Abu Dhabi-based carrier aims to double its fleet size by 2030, necessitating the hiring of hundreds of pilots over the next 18 months.
This expansion plan reflects a renewed optimism within Etihad Airways. The airline, like many in the industry, navigated a turbulent period during the global pandemic. However, with travel restrictions easing and demand rising, Etihad is poised for a significant comeback.
The pilot recruitment drive will target candidates with experience flying a variety of aircraft types currently within the Etihad fleet. This includes Airbus A320s, A350s, and A380s, along with Boeing’s 777 and 787 passenger models, and the 777 freighter variant.
To attract top talent, Etihad plans to host an international recruitment roadshow across eight European countries. Kicking off in Larnaca, Cyprus on June 29th, the roadshow will visit cities in Bulgaria, Albania, Romania, Hungary, Poland, and Lithuania. This initial European focus will be followed by a global expansion of the recruitment campaign in the coming months.
Etihad recognizes that pilots value long-term career prospects and a positive work environment. Beyond competitive salaries and benefits, the airline emphasizes opportunities for professional development and progression within the company. Additionally, Etihad highlights the attractive lifestyle offered by Abu Dhabi, the airline’s hub city.
John Wright, Etihad’s Chief Operations and Guest Officer, acknowledged the importance of attracting and retaining skilled pilots. “We understand that pilots carefully choose where they will spend their careers, ” Wright said. “We want to showcase not only the career development opportunities at Etihad, but also the fantastic lifestyle that Abu Dhabi provides. “
This large-scale pilot recruitment drive signifies Etihad’s commitment to its ambitious growth strategy. By bolstering its workforce and expanding its fleet, the airline aims to solidify its position as a key player in the global aviation industry. The success of this recruitment drive will be crucial for Etihad’s journey towards doubling its fleet size by 2030.
