Etihad Airways is deploying a group of Emirati airport trainees to international stations for the first time, sending seven UAE Nationals to work across four of the airline’s busiest overseas hubs during the peak summer travel season.
The deployment follows the foundation phase of Etihad’s Airports and Ground Operations Programmes, which train participants at Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi. Trainees rotate through check-in, boarding, transfer services, baggage operations and arrivals before moving into supervisory roles and gaining exposure to network operations and aircraft dispatch.
The seven selected for the inaugural international cohort will now apply those skills in live environments at stations in Copenhagen, Paris, Phuket and Kuala Lumpur, chosen for their high passenger volumes in the summer months.
“Emirati talent is at the heart of Etihad’s long-term growth strategy. Since launching our Emiratisation strategy last year, we have invested in programmes that combine world-class operational training with meaningful international exposure, giving flight to the ambitions of our Emirati talent and equipping them with the skills, confidence and global perspective to thrive,” Dr. Nadia Bastaki, Chief People, Government and Corporate Affairs Officer at Etihad Airways said in a statement.
“Every seamless journey begins on the ground. Our Airport Programmes are preparing the next generation of Emirati professionals who will play a vital role in delivering safe, efficient and world-class airport operations. Through hands-on experience across our global network, they gain practical insights, exchange knowledge with international colleagues and experience diverse operational and cultural environments. On these international assignments, our young Emiratis become ambassadors for the UAE on the world stage, showcasing the professionalism, warmth and values that define both Etihad and our nation,” Captain Majed Al Marzouqi, Chief Operations & Guest Officer at Etihad Airways added.
The airline says Emiratis who have previously completed these programmes now oversee operations across East Asia, Europe, the GCC and North Africa. Applications for the Airports and Ground Operations Programmes are open at etihad.com/airportprogramme.
