Latest news with #NadiaBastaki
The National
20 hours ago
- Business
- The National
Etihad Airways hosts open days to recruit Wizz Air's Abu Dhabi staff
Etihad Airways has hosted open day sessions to recruit staff from budget carrier Wizz Air, which is suspending its Abu Dhabi operations from September. 'We've extended our support to affected colleagues and have hosted open days to provide them with potential opportunities at Etihad,' Dr Nadia Bastaki, chief people, government and corporate affairs officer of Etihad Aviation Group, told The National. 'This response reflects our broader responsibility to contribute positively to the aviation ecosystem in the region, particularly in challenging times.' The push to hire Wizz Air workers is part of Etihad's plans to hire pilots, cabin crew, engineers and airport staff to boost its head count by 1,500 this year alone. The Abu Dhabi-based airline, which currently has a workforce of 12,000 people, plans to recruit 2,000 workers every year for the next five years as part of its ambitious growth plan to double its fleet and passenger volumes by 2030, according to Dr Bastaki. 'Our focus is on attracting top-tier talent and ensuring that all efforts align with Etihad's long-term expansion while fostering the development of UAE nationals within our workforce,' she said. The challenge for the industry in the future is attracting talent, Arik De, chief revenue and commercial officer of Etihad Airways, told The National onboard the delivery flight of Etihad's first Airbus A321LR from Hamburg to Abu Dhabi last week. Earlier this month, Wizz Air said it was suspending operations in Abu Dhabi to focus on core markets following a 'comprehensive reassessment'. The no-frills airline cited operational challenges, including engine problems that led to the grounding of aircraft, among reasons for the exit. It began operations in the UAE capital in January 2021. The move by Wizz Air leaves about 450 staff in limbo as some will be unable to relocate to the airline's European operations without European passports or visas, according to a Bloomberg report. Expansion push Etihad Airways is hiring amid a major expansion push with a plan to carry 38 million passengers annually and grow its fleet to 220 planes by 2030. In June, Etihad said it carried 20 million people in a rolling 12-month period for the first time and was operating 101 aircraft. This month, Emirates Group also announced a major hiring spree with plans to recruit 17,300 people including more cabin crew, pilots and engineers as well as cargo, catering and ground handling staff. The Dubai-based aviation group's plans to add staff in 350 different roles in the financial year ending March 2026 will boost its total workforce by 14 per cent. Boeing's latest 20-year outlook for commercial pilots, crew and technicians shows that the industry will require nearly 2.4 million new aviation professionals globally by 2044 to meet the long-term increase in air travel. In the Middle East, airlines will need a total of 234,000 new aviation personnel by 2044. They will be made up of 67,000 pilots, 63,000 technicians and 104,000 cabin crew, Boeing said in its 2025 Pilot and Technician Outlook report. Return to first-class Etihad will embark on a programme to refresh its older aircraft in the fourth quarter of 2026 or the first quarter of 2027, Mr De said. It will cost around $1 billion. The retrofit programme will include older Boeing 777s, 787-9 Dreamliners, Airbus A350s and the A321 classic version, he said. This will entail bringing a first-class seat, lie-flat business-class seats and 'surprise' product announcements that will be revealed 'sooner than later', he added. Etihad plans to equip its entire fleet of wide bodies and narrow bodies with a first-class product by 2030, going against an industry-wide trend of many airlines removing their first-class seats and improving their business-class product. 'We want to have all the planes in Etihad with a first-class [product] – that's the target in five years,' Etihad chief executive Antonoaldo Neves said in Hamburg during a media briefing last week. Etihad took delivery of the first of 30 A321LR narrowbodies from the Airbus facility in Hamburg last week, showcasing first-class seats on a small plane. Another nine A321LRs will be handed over this year, 10 in 2026, five in 2027 and another five in 2028. After the 10th plane, the incoming A321LR deliveries will feature new changes, according to Mr De. 'It will be bolder and better. Next year will be a different product,' he said, declining to provide details. Airbus A380 operations Etihad Airways is also considering returning more of its Airbus A380s to service, Mr De added. It currently operates seven of its 10 double-deckers. In June it started operating the A380 on daily flights to Toronto, boosting capacity by 31 per cent. 'We continue to explore bringing additional A380s back,' Mr De said. 'We want more A380s back, but we don't want to bring them if they don't bring us money.' Etihad began to gradually reintroduce A380s to the fleet after they were grounded by the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, when global air travel came to a near-standstill.
Al Etihad
26-05-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Etihad Airways hosts inaugural career fair in support of its new UAE national talent development strategy
26 May 2025 20:18 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)As part of its newly launched UAE National Talent Development Strategy, Etihad Airways held its inaugural career fair - KHUTWATY 2025, a platform designed to connect ambitious Emirati talent with a wide range of career opportunities in aviation and related meaning, my step, in Arabic, is designed to foster direct engagement with the Emirati community. The event provided attendees with the opportunity to explore the world of aviation, discover diverse career paths, connect with influential leaders, and experience Etihad's dynamic work Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said, "Our Journey 2030 vision sets bold goals—doubling our fleet, tripling passenger numbers, and expanding to 16 new destinations in 2025 alone. Achieving this ambition requires more than operational growth; it demands exceptional people. At the heart of this vision is our National Talent Development Strategy, carefully designed to attract, develop, and advance the most ambitious and high-potential Emirati talents."KHUTWATY 2025 Career Fair is a key initiative within this strategy, providing a platform to connect with aspiring Emiratis and open pathways to impactful careers, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to the UAE through its national carrier."Dr Nadia Bastaki, Chief People and Corporate Affairs Officer at Etihad Airways, said, "Etihad Airways is deeply committed to empowering Emirati talent by providing exceptional development opportunities within one of the fastest-growing airlines in the region. This commitment goes beyond recruitment; it is about creating an environment where ambition is recognised, nurtured, and elevated. "We are proud to stand alongside the next generation of Emiratis as they pursue careers in aviation—an industry that continues to grow rapidly and plays a vital role in the UAE's future. By investing in their development, we are giving flight to ambition, enabling Emiratis to transform their potential into meaningful impact for the UAE. 'Through our National Talent Development Strategy, we aim to enrol more than 1,000 UAE Nationals in a variety of roles across the organisation over the next five years. Platforms such as KHUTWATY Career Fair are essential in developing a strong pipeline of Emirati talent, allowing us to connect with the brightest national candidates eager to join our growing team."The career fair showcased six specialised programmes designed to provide Emirati Nationals with career opportunities across both technical and corporate includes the Cadet Pilot Programme, a structured two-year journey that combines classroom theory with hands-on flight training in both Abu Dhabi and Spain. The programme prepares aspiring pilots with the foundational skills and international experience needed to begin a successful aviation Technician Programme, an end-to-end development programme, is designed to equip participants with the comprehensive skills required to become licensed Aircraft Technicians. The programme combines academic training, GCAA module examinations, and hands-on practical experience, culminating in a Category A Aircraft Maintenance Licence Airport Management Programme is a development programme offering comprehensive exposure to airport ground operations, both locally and internationally. Participants are rotated through key operational areas, gaining hands-on experience and leadership skills. With opportunities for international placements, the programme prepares Emiratis to take on supervisory roles, and contribute to the seamless functioning of global airport environments. The fair also showcased the Bedayati Programme, a structured training initiative for fresh Emirati graduates. The programme offers real-world work experience across various aviation functions, providing participants with the skills needed to kickstart their careers. In partnership with national initiatives like the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council (NAFIS), Etihad aims to attract talented Emirati graduates to the Bedayati programme, offering them valuable industry exposure and a pathway to potential MBA Future Leader Programme, a rotational leadership programme, offers exposure to core airline functions. Emirati professionals work alongside senior leaders, receive mentorship, and built strategic skills needed to drive progress and lead in a global aviation Emerging Talent Programme is designed for Emiratis with 1–2 years of experience, and offers entry-level roles in high-impact areas such as innovation, digital, finance, and data analytics. With clear development pathways, it supports skill development and career growth into future-focused business 2025 fostered meaningful dialogue with the Emirati community to help align local talent with roles and programmes tailored to their career goals. Participants took part in keynote speeches and panel discussions led by Etihad's senior leaders, and connected directly with hiring managers and industry experts—building networks that support long-term career development. The career fair also featured interactive experiences that offer insight into Etihad's values, culture, and vision of success. Attendees learnt how to reflect these values throughout the recruitment process, with expert-led workshops covering every stage of the candidate journey—from crafting compelling CVs to interview preparation—ensuring Emirati professionals are equipped with the skills and confidence to navigate their career journey successfully. Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
Al Etihad
26-05-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Ministry of Higher Education, Etihad Airways to support National Scholarship Programme
26 May 2025 13:04 ABU DHABI (WAM) The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) has partnered with Etihad Airways to support the National Scholarship they will offer scholarships in priority fields, providing students with a fast track to careers at one of the nation's leading aviation collaboration is another step forward in MoHESR's ongoing efforts to enhance scholarship strategies by partnering with leading public and private sector partnership will enable Emirati students to pursue degrees in selected fields at top-ranked international parties will identify target universities, countries, and specialisations, along with the selection criteria. Students will also receive vocational training and career guidance to prepare them for future roles in strategic fields at Etihad Airways, such as aviation, engineering, and Assistant Undersecretary for the Higher Education Operations Sector and Director of the International Education Support and Scholarships Department at MoHESR, Ahmad Ibrahim Alsaadi, said, 'At MoHESR, we continuously enhance our programmes to build skilled national talent capable of driving the UAE's progress."Joining forces with Etihad Airways reflects our commitment to aligning our scholarships with national economic needs. This collaboration highlights the significant role of public-private partnerships in developing an educational system that empowers students to succeed in the future labour market and become active contributors to key economic sectors.'Chief People, Government, and Corporate Affairs Officer at Etihad Airways, Dr. Nadia Bastaki, said, 'At Etihad Airways, we are proud to empower Emirati talent. Our partnership with MoHESR reflects our shared commitment to nurturing ambition and aligning education with real-world industry needs. By bridging academic learning with practical experience, we are preparing students to shape the future of aviation and strengthen the UAE's global competitiveness.'MoHESR will oversee students' academic progress and manage exceptional its part, Etihad Airways will provide the scholarship recipients with hands-on training, career guidance, and continuous support throughout their studies and participate in their performance evaluation. The airline will also design structured career paths involving training programmes before and after graduation. The collaboration includes post-graduation follow-up with data sharing and feedback to assess the programme's impact and identify improvements for future student cohorts.
Gulf Today
25-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Over 3,000 Emiratis eager to explore key opportunities at Etihad's career fair
Etihad Airways hosted its inaugural KHUTWATY 2025 career fair, a high-impact event aimed at identifying and attracting the UAE's most ambitious and capable Nationals to join the airline's next phase of growth. Held at Yas Conference Centre, the event drew over 3,000 Emiratis eager to explore roles where they can contribute their skills and expertise, grow into leadership positions, and shape the future of aviation in the UAE. It was an open invitation to those ready to play a role in giving flight to ambition – Etihad's core purpose. KHUTWATY 2025 offered direct engagement with Etihad's executive leadership and recruitment teams, insight into the airline's high-performance standards, and access to Etihad's six flagship UAE National Talent Programmes: Cadet Pilot, Cadet Technician, Airport Management, Bedayati, MBA Graduate, and Emerging Talent. Each programme is structured to fast-track high-potential individuals into roles that demand ownership, accountability, and impact. Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, stated: 'We are entering one of the most ambitious chapters in Etihad's journey. To deliver on our vision to be the airline everyone wants to fly, we need the best minds and strongest drive. KHUTWATY is about selecting future leaders: Nationals who think strategically, act with intent, and are ready to push this company – and this country – forward.' Dr. Nadia Bastaki, Chief People, Government and Corporate Affairs Officer, Etihad Airways, added: 'KHUTWATY 2025 is designed to connect ambitious UAE Nationals with real opportunities. We are not simply offering employment – we are opening the door to those ready to take on responsibility, make an impact, and help shape the future of Etihad and the UAE. We're looking for leaders who will carry the UAE's ambition into the skies and beyond. Our commitment to UAE National talent is not just a priority – it reflects our belief that ambition, when met with the right mindset and drive, is what truly drives sustainable success.' Learning from Those Who've Done It A cornerstone of the event was a curated series of talks by Emirati professionals who have risen through Etihad – demonstrating what's possible through commitment and high performance. Their journeys demonstrate Etihad's values: ambitious, driven, united, authentic, safe, and passionate. Senior leaders also hosted panel discussions outlining the structure and expectations of each talent programme, with open Q&A sessions that offered direct insight into the opportunities ahead. Practical Tools to Stand Out KHUTWATY 2025 featured focused workshops designed to sharpen attendees' readiness to compete and lead. Sessions included: Digital recruitment masterclasses – practical guidance on navigating Etihad's hiring process Personal branding workshops – run in partnership with LinkedIn Communication and confidence coaching – delivered in collaboration with Mawaheb – Department of Government Enablement KHUTWATY 2025 underscored a clear message: Etihad is looking for Emiratis who are ready to step up, contribute with purpose, and play a meaningful role in the airline's future. Meanwhile, Etihad Airways has delivered record-breaking financial performance and highest-ever customer satisfaction performance in the first quarter of 2025, building on last year's momentum with further notable improvements across revenue, operational efficiency, and fleet expansion. Profit after tax reached Dhs 685 million (U.S.$ 187 million), marking a 30 per cent increase year-on-year, driven by robust passenger demand and operational efficiencies. Total revenue saw a 15 per cent rise compared to Q1 2024, supported by both passenger and cargo business. Etihad continues to lead the region in passenger growth, carrying 5.0 million guests in Q1 2025 – a 16 per cent year-on-year increase – and maintaining strong momentum into Q2. With nearly 20 million passengers carried over the last 12 months, Etihad is the fastest-growing airline in the region. Customer satisfaction reached a record high in Q1 2025, with scores improving by 20 per cent year-on-year. Gains were recorded across key touchpoints, including check-in, boarding, inflight service, food and beverage, Wi-Fi, and the updated website and mobile app. The quarter also saw the launch of new lounge and inflight menus, alongside upgraded service standards. The fleet continued to expand to support the guest experience. One additional A380 returned to service during the quarter, offering First Apartments and The Residence. In April, Etihad took delivery of another A350-1000, with another Boeing 787 Dreamliner to follow. These new aircraft feature ultra-high-speed Wi-Fi and updated inflight entertainment systems. Etihad also advanced its premium offering, expanding First Class to more routes and preparing new ground and inflight services for rollout from August. In April, the airline introduced its new A321LR cabin, becoming the first in the region to offer First Class on a single-aisle aircraft.
Zawya
25-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Khutwaty 2025: Etihad Airways Career Fair where Emiratis' ambitions take flight and new opportunties
From inspiration to action: KHUTWATY 2025 offers direct career opportunities, inspiring sessions, recruitment workshops, and valuable insights into Etihad's work culture Etihad Airways aims to enrol over 1,000 UAE Nationals in diverse roles across the organisation over the next five years, through six specialised programmes designed to develop Emirati talent Abu Dhabi, UAE – As part of its newly launched UAE National Talent Development Strategy, Etihad Airways is proud to announce the launch of its inaugural career fair, KHUTWATY 2025—a dynamic platform designed to connect ambitious Emirati talent with a wide range of career opportunities in aviation and beyond. KHUTWATY, meaning 'my step' in Arabic, is designed to foster direct engagement with the Emirati community. Taking place at the Yas Conference Centre in Abu Dhabi on Thursday, 22 May 2025, from 2:00pm to 6:00pm, the event is more than just a recruitment fair. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the unique world of aviation, discover its diverse career paths, connect with influential leaders, and experience Etihad's dynamic work culture. Etihad's Commitment to Emirati Talent Development Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, stated: "Our Journey 2030 vision sets bold goals—doubling our fleet, tripling passenger numbers, and expanding to 16 new destinations in 2025 alone. Achieving this ambition requires more than operational growth; it demands exceptional people. At the heart of this vision is our National Talent Development Strategy, carefully designed to attract, develop, and advance the most ambitious and high-potential Emirati talents. " 'KHUTWATY 2025 Career Fair is a key initiative within this strategy, providing a platform to connect with aspiring Emiratis and open pathways to impactful careers, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to the UAE through its national carrier.' Dr. Nadia Bastaki, Chief People and Corporate Affairs Officer at Etihad Airways, said: 'Etihad Airways is deeply committed to empowering Emirati talent by providing exceptional development opportunities within one of the fastest-growing airlines in the region. This commitment goes beyond recruitment; it is about creating an environment where ambition is recognised, nurtured, and elevated. We are proud to stand alongside the next generation of Emiratis as they pursue careers in aviation—an industry that continues to grow rapidly and plays a vital role in the UAE's future. By investing in their development, we are giving flight to ambition, enabling Emiratis to transform their potential into meaningful impact for the UAE.' 'Through our National Talent Development Strategy, we aim to enrol more than 1,000 UAE Nationals in a variety of roles across the organisation over the next five years. Platforms such as KHUTWATY Career Fair are essential in developing a strong pipeline of Emirati talent, allowing us to connect with the brightest national candidates eager to join our growing team," Bastaki added A Rich Array of Career Programmes The career fair will showcase six specialised programmes designed to provide Emirati Nationals with career opportunities across both technical and corporate functions: Cadet Pilot Programme: A structured two-year journey that combines classroom theory with hands-on flight training in both Abu Dhabi and Spain. This programme prepares aspiring pilots with the foundational skills and international experience needed to begin a successful aviation career. Cadet Technician Programme: An end-to-end development programme designed to equip participants with the comprehensive skills required to become licensed Aircraft Technicians. The programme combines academic training, GCAA module examinations, and hands-on practical experience, culminating in a Category A Aircraft Maintenance Licence qualification. Airport Management Programme: A development programme offering comprehensive exposure to airport ground operations, both locally and internationally. Participants will rotate through key operational areas, gaining hands-on experience and leadership skills. With opportunities for international placements, this programme prepares Emiratis to take on supervisory roles and contribute to the seamless functioning of global airport environments. Bedayati Programme: A structured training initiative for fresh Emirati graduates. This programme offers real-world work experience across various aviation functions, providing participants with the skills needed to kickstart their careers. In partnership with national initiatives like NAFIS, Etihad aims to attract talented Emirati graduates to the Bedayati programme, offering them valuable industry exposure and a pathway to potential careers. MBA Future Leader Programme: A rotational leadership programme offering exposure to core airline functions. Emirati professionals will work alongside senior leaders, receive mentorship, and build the strategic skills needed to drive progress and lead in a global aviation environment. Emerging Talent Programme: Designed for Emiratis with 1–2 years of experience, this programme offers entry-level roles in high-impact areas such as innovation, digital, finance, and data analytics. With clear development pathways, it supports skill development and career growth into future-focused business areas. Opportunities for Connection and Development KHUTWATY 2025 will foster meaningful dialogue with the Emirati community and help align local talent with roles and programmes tailored to their career goals. Participants can take part in keynote speeches and panel discussions led by Etihad's senior leaders, and connect directly with hiring managers and industry experts—building networks that support long-term career development. The career fair will also feature interactive experiences that offer insight into Etihad's values, culture, and vision of success. Attendees will learn how to reflect these values throughout the recruitment process, with expert-led workshops covering every stage of the candidate journey—from crafting compelling CVs to interview preparation—ensuring Emirati professionals are equipped with the skills and confidence to navigate their career journey successfully. Dream Big, Fly Higher with Etihad Etihad Airways invites Emirati talent to take part in its continued development journey. Begin your career with an organisation committed to professional growth and the advancement of national talent. To attend the KHUTWATY 2025 Career Fair, please register via the following link: About Etihad Airways Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, was formed in 2003 and quickly went on to become one of the world's leading airlines. From its home in Abu Dhabi, Etihad flies to passenger and cargo destinations in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America. Together with Etihad's codeshare partners, Etihad's network offers access to hundreds of international destinations. In recent years, Etihad has received numerous awards for its superior service and products, cargo offering, loyalty programme and more. To learn more, visit
