Etihad Airways launches cadet pilot scholarship program for employees

"Our growth strategy is driven by the increasing demand for skilled pilots. The Employee Cadet Pilot Programme plays a pivotal role in ensuring the next generation is equipped with world-class skills and expertise needed to excel in the ever-evolving aviation industry. "

"As an employer of choice in the UAE, we wanted to give opportunity to our employees to make lateral career moves within Etihad with fully paid scholarships. "

The ten chosen candidates currently serve in various roles at Etihad, including cabin crew and flight dispatch. They represent different nationalities, with 70% being female. According to the airline, they competed with nearly 600 applicants for this opportunity.

All cadets underwent a rigorous two-month application process that included tests in English, mathematics, physics, pilot aptitude tests, psychometric evaluations, and medical assessments. Once all formalities are completed, the candidates will begin their training.

The future pilots were revealed on stage at the airline’s annual employee engagement forum attended by 2,500 employees. One successful candidate said: "I am thrilled to be selected as one of the candidates because I can show my son that dreams really can come true."

Etihad aims to develop world-class pilots who align with its operational and safety standards. According to Captain Fahad Alseiari Head of the Cadet Pilot Programme:

"The initiative sets standard for pilot training combining comprehensive theoretical education with practical flying experience."

The cadets will be trained in both UAE and Spain using classroom-based learning sessions along with full flight simulator sessions.

This marks Etihad's first employee-only Cadet pilot program offering staff an opportunity achieve their dreams joining flight crew.The intake which saw seven women selected coincided International Women’s Month celebrating diversity achievements various sectors

Etihad has grown significantly over last21 years becoming major carrier Middle East marking several milestones including national employee cadet programs.These programs continue play pivotal role developing sustainable pipeline skilled talent support airline’s growth

Based Abu Dhabi International Airport Etihad currently serves over90 international destinations around50 countries.It operates fleet approximately102 active inactive aircraft comprising15 Airbus A320s,A321s,A350s,A380s,Boeing777s Dreamliners

Etihad recently announced highest-ever profit$476 million (AED1 .7 billion)for2024.Marking third consecutive year profitability FY24 after-tax profit more than three times previous year.Etihad carried18 .5 million people2024,increase32%from2023