Etihad Airways, headquartered in Abu Dhabi, has unveiled ambitious plans for expansion, signaling its intent to recruit nearly 2,000 professionals across various roles throughout the current year. The recruitment drive, encompassing pilots, cabin crew, and mechanics, is in anticipation of substantial growth projected by 2025. Notably, the majority of these positions are expected to be filled by non-Emiratis, reflecting the airline’s commitment to diversity in its workforce.
The expansion initiative also includes the incorporation of 15 additional aircraft into Etihad’s fleet. Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways, underscored the importance of recruitment and training in the latter half of the year to bolster the airline’s operational capabilities for the anticipated fleet expansion.
This strategic move comes as Etihad Airways seeks to enhance its service offerings by increasing the number of flights, frequencies, and destinations. The decision is propelled by a noticeable uptick in passenger traffic, with the airline achieving an 86% passenger load factor in 2023, marking a significant improvement from the previous year.
In a recent announcement, Etihad revealed its financial results for 2023, showcasing commendable performance with a revenue of Dh20.3 billion, a net profit of Dh525 million, and an operating result of Dh1.4 billion. This impressive performance is attributed to a Dh4 billion increase in passenger revenue compared to the previous year.
Looking ahead, Neves remains optimistic about the future trajectory of Etihad Airways, targeting a substantial increase in passenger numbers from 10 million in 2022 to over 30 million by 2030. However, this ambitious projection hinges on the timely acquisition of additional aircraft to meet the growing demand. Neves forecasts a growth rate of 25 to 30% in 2024 alone, with aspirations of transporting 17 million passengers if the fleet expansion proceeds as planned.
In a nod to national talent development, Neves expressed his intention to significantly boost the number of Emirati pilots within the airline in the coming years. He emphasized the importance of representing the UAE on the global stage and nurturing local talent in the aviation sector.
Eligibility Criteria and Application Process
- Pilots: Applicants should possess a valid pilot’s license and meet the necessary qualifications and experience requirements as per aviation regulations.
- Cabin Crew: Candidates should demonstrate excellent communication skills, a friendly demeanor, and the ability to work in a dynamic environment. Proficiency in English is typically required, along with additional language skills depending on the routes served.
- Mechanics: Individuals applying for mechanical positions must hold relevant qualifications and experience in aircraft maintenance and engineering.
During the recruitment process, applicants may be required to submit the following documents:
- Updated resume/CV
- Copies of relevant certifications and licenses
- Passport-sized photographs
- Any additional documents specified in the job application
To apply for positions at Etihad Airways, interested candidates can visit the airline’s official website or check for job postings on various online job portals. The application process typically involves submitting an online application form and undergoing various stages of assessment, including interviews and assessments.
As Etihad Airways embarks on this significant expansion journey, it remains committed to fostering talent and providing opportunities for individuals to contribute to its success while representing the UAE on the global aviation stage.
