Etihad Airways celebrates Emirati women in aviation industry

emirates7 - On Emirati Women's Day, Etihad Airways, the UAE’s national carrier, marked its 20th anniversary by celebrating its efforts in advancing the role of Emirati women in aviation.

The airline announced that nearly half of its UAE national workforce is made up of Emirati women, highlighting its dedication to fostering local talent.

Over the past two decades, Etihad has earned a reputation for supporting Emirati talent through various programs that engage and equip Emirati professionals with new skills. Notable initiatives include the Etihad Cadet Pilot Programme, Graduate Manager Programme, and specialized training for technicians and engineers, all of which have contributed to a skilled and diverse workforce of Emirati women.

As a result, Emirati women have achieved significant representation in various roles within the airline, including pilots, cabin crew, aircraft technicians, and engineers, as well as in professions such as medical doctors, trainers, and lawyers. Additionally, Emirati women have excelled in core business roles and leadership positions.

Since its founding, Etihad has implemented forward-thinking strategies to empower Emirati women and strengthen the UAE workforce. Significant milestones include the establishment of the Global Business Service Solutions revenue accounting centre in Al Ain in 2016 and the launch of an all-female call centre in Al Ain in 2011. These initiatives reflect Etihad’s commitment to developing female talent in aviation through essential training and development opportunities.

Dr. Nadia Bastaki, Chief People and Corporate Affairs Officer, stated, “As we reflect on our 20-year journey, we take pride in having attracted ambitious women whose dedication has been crucial in establishing our national airline as a global leader. Emirati women have excelled in operational roles, leadership positions, and as outstation managers around the world. Their contributions extend beyond their professional roles, inspiring both the UAE and the global aviation community. Today, we celebrate their resilience, their drive for change, and their role in shaping the future of our airline, the aviation industry, and the UAE.”