Etihad Airways launches Employee Cadet Pilot Programme, offering 10 full scholarships to staff from diverse roles, fostering in-house aviation talent.

Etihad Airways is taking flight on a transformative journey to unlock internal career potential by launching an all-new Employee Cadet Pilot Programme, granting 10 full scholarships exclusively to current staff members from diverse national backgrounds. This initiative marks a pivotal moment in the airline’s workforce development strategy, opening doors for employees to transition into cockpit roles for the first time.

Building on the overwhelming response to its UAE National Cadet Pilot Programme, which drew over 2,000 applicants last year, Etihad now broadens its horizons by focusing on internal mobility—a forward-thinking move designed to cultivate future aviators from within its own ranks.

The programme is a tribute to Etihad’s multinational workforce, which comprises professionals from 145 nationalities. The newly selected cadets, drawn from operational departments such as Cabin Crew and Flight Dispatch, reflect the airline’s deep-rooted commitment to diversity, equity, and career progression.

“This initiative is a cornerstone of our growth strategy, driven by the global demand for highly trained aviation professionals,” said Dr Nadia Bastaki, Chief People and Corporate Affairs Officer at Etihad Airways. “By sponsoring our own employees through world-class pilot training, we’re reinforcing our role as a leading employer and investing in long-term talent development.”

The announcement of the 10 successful candidates came during Etihad’s annual employee forum, where more than 2,500 staff members witnessed the unveiling of the future pilot cohort. Among the standout highlights of the selection was the inclusion of seven women, a powerful testament to Etihad’s focus on gender inclusivity in aviation—a symbolic moment as the announcement aligned with the global celebration of International Women’s Day.

“Diversity is the engine that drives innovation and resilience,” added Dr Bastaki. “We are incredibly proud to see more women stepping into pilot training—breaking barriers and inspiring a new generation of leaders in the skies.”

The selection process was highly competitive, with nearly 600 employees vying for the prestigious programme. Candidates endured a rigorous two-month assessment, covering proficiency in English, mathematics, physics, pilot aptitude, psychometric evaluations, and medical clearances. Only the most dedicated and high-performing individuals made the cut.

One selected cadet, a mother and former cabin crew member, reflected emotionally on her achievement: “This opportunity isn’t just a career shift—it’s a statement to my child that dreams have no limits.”

Captain Fahad Alseiari, Head of the Cadet Pilot Programme at Etihad Airways, emphasized the comprehensive nature of the training:
“Our goal is to produce pilots who reflect Etihad’s high operational and safety standards. The two-year training spans both the UAE and Spain, blending theoretical instruction, simulator experience, and hands-on flight training using cutting-edge aviation technologies.”

This exclusive internal programme is the first of its kind in Etihad’s history, allowing existing staff to pivot professionally and pursue their aspirations of becoming commercial airline pilots. It also serves a broader strategic purpose—ensuring a reliable, high-quality talent pipeline as Etihad continues to scale its global footprint.

As the airline accelerates expansion plans and responds to growing international demand, this initiative positions Etihad at the forefront of human capital development in the aviation sector. It is a clear signal that the airline is not only investing in fleets and routes—but in the hearts, minds, and ambitions of its people.

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