Etihad Airways launches a fully sponsored Employee Cadet Pilot Programme, offering ten internal staff members a chance to train as pilots and advance their careers.
Etihad Airways has introduced a groundbreaking initiative to nurture its internal talent, unveiling a new Employee Cadet Pilot Programme that provides full scholarships to ten deserving staff members. This latest development follows the overwhelming success of the UAE National Cadet Programme, which attracted over 2,000 applications when it was launched last year.
Empowering Internal Talent Across 145 Nationalities
Recognizing the vast diversity within its workforce, Etihad has handpicked ten candidates from various departments, granting them an extraordinary opportunity to transition into a piloting career. These individuals, representing eight different nationalities, will now embark on a two-year journey of intensive training, fully sponsored by the airline.
Currently employed in diverse roles such as Cabin Crew and Flight Dispatch, the chosen employees will undergo rigorous pilot training once all necessary formalities are finalized. This initiative underscores Etihad’s commitment to fostering career growth and empowering its workforce through internal mobility.
Diversity in Aviation: Women Leading the Way
In a notable achievement, seven of the ten selected candidates are women, reinforcing Etihad’s dedication to gender diversity and inclusion within the aviation industry. The selection process was highly competitive, with nearly 600 internal applicants vying for a spot in the prestigious programme.
To ensure only the most capable individuals progress, the evaluation process spanned two months and included comprehensive assessments in English, mathematics, and physics. Candidates also underwent a rigorous Pilot Aptitude test, psychometric evaluations, and medical examinations to confirm their suitability for the demanding role of a pilot.
Shaping the Future of Aviation Through Internal Development
This marks the first time Etihad has introduced an exclusive Cadet Pilot Programme tailored solely for existing employees, allowing them to pivot their careers and realize their aspirations of becoming pilots. By investing in its own workforce, the airline aims to cultivate a sustainable pipeline of skilled aviators who will contribute to its continued expansion and global reputation as a leading carrier.
As Etihad continues to grow, the Employee Cadet Pilot Programme stands as a testament to its commitment to career development, workforce diversity, and innovation within the aviation sector. This initiative not only strengthens the airline’s internal capabilities but also sets a precedent for fostering talent from within, ensuring a bright future for aspiring pilots among its ranks.
Dr Nadia Bastaki, Chief People and Corporate Affairs Officer, Etihad Airways, said: “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 the 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.”
Dr Nadia added: “As the world comes together in support of International Women’s Day, it is fitting that we celebrate the diversity of our cadet pilot intake, with seven of the ten successful candidates being women. At Etihad, we’re proud to give flight to ambition with this incredible opportunity for internal candidates who have the determination to take their careers to new heights.”
The successful internal candidates were revealed on stage at Etihad’s annual employee engagement forum in front of 2,500 employees. On receiving the scholarship news, one of the selected women spoke of her pride to join the programme, “I am thrilled to be selected as one of the candidates because I can show my son that dreams really can come true.”
Captain Fahad Alseiari, Head of the Cadet Pilot Programme at Etihad Airways, said: “The primary objective of the Cadet Pilot Programme is to develop world-class pilots who align with Etihad Airways’ operational and safety standards. The programme sets the standard for pilot
training, blending comprehensive theoretical education with practical flying experience. By using the latest aircraft models and technologies, we ensure our cadets are well-prepared for the demands of modern aviation.”
“The two-year programme spans training in both the UAE and Spain, combining classroom-based learning with full flight simulator sessions. This ensures our graduates acquire the skills needed to meet Etihad’s high operational standards and contribute to our global success.”
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