As part of its expanding Emiratisation programme, Etihad Airways, the UAE’s national airline, has hosted a series of training assessments to seek out the next generation of Emirati pilots.
Following a comprehensive promotional campaign, 500 applicants enrolled for a week of cadet pilot assessments which took place at the Officer’s Club in Abu Dhabi.
With female pilots across the world few in number, one of the undoubted highlights of the week was the attendance of more than 75 female applicants, keen to explore how they can join the ranks as an Etihad pilot.
James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ chief executive, said: “Our new Emiratisation programme is very exciting for the growth of Etihad Airways. Currently fewer than five per cent of Etihad’s pilots are UAE nationals and, with the airline’s incredible growth set to continue, it is vital that we recruit greater numbers of Emirati pilots, as well as in many positions in the airline.”
The minimum entry age to become a pilot is 18 years old, and in order to open the airline’s cadet pilot programme up to as many UAE nationals as possible, Etihad increased the maximum entry age from 24 to 30 years-old.
Captain Ismail Al Rais, head of the Etihad cadet pilot programme, added: “As one of the first Emirati nationals to join Etihad when it was first formed, it is a privilege to be so closely involved in this scheme. To have attracted so many female candidates also illustrates the high regard in which a career with the UAE’s national airline is held.”
During the first phase of the assessment process candidates heard several presentations from senior members of Etihad’s flight deck crew, as well as undertaking comprehensive personality and English language tests.
Candidates progressing to the second and third phases in April will then take part in more rigorous activities varying from security checks to aptitude and medical examinations.
Following the conclusion of the three assessment phases, 50 cadet pilots will join Etihad’s elite Horizon training academy in Abu Dhabi.
Mohammed Humaidan Al Zaabi, general manager of Horizon International Flight Academy, said: “The aim of the programme is to have 14 cadets joining Horizon every three months. Further assessments will take place at the academy because each cadet will have varying amounts of experience, with some having never flown before and others owning a commercial pilots licence.”
To complete the Etihad programme, and become a first officer (co-pilot), pilot cadets will have to accrue 930 hours in the classroom and 205 hours flying experience which includes single and multi engine aircraft.
About Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways is the national airline of the United Arab Emirates based in the UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi.
Currently Etihad offers flights to 38 destinations in the Middle East, Europe, North America, Africa and Asia.
For further details: Etihad Airways Corporate Communications:
Tel: + 971 (0) 2505 8006 / 8336 / 8055 or visit www.etihadairways.com
