Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways has announced plans to hire up to 2,000 pilots, cabin crew, and mechanics this year in preparation for its expansion in 2025. CEO Antonoaldo Neves revealed the airline’s intentions, stating that they aim to add 15 more planes to their fleet by 2025, necessitating a significant increase in staffing.
Neves emphasized the importance of gearing up for the upcoming expansion, particularly in terms of training pilots and flight attendants for the new aircraft. The airline aims to capitalize on the positive momentum seen in passenger traffic, with plans to boost the number of flights, frequencies, and destinations.
Etihad Airways reported robust financial results for 2023, including a total revenue of Dh20.3 billion and a net profit of Dh525 million. Neves expressed optimism about the future, aiming to triple the airline’s passenger numbers from 10 million in 2022 to over 30 million by 2030.
In line with its commitment to Emiratisation, Etihad is focusing on developing Emirati talents, particularly in pilot and technical roles. Neves hopes to see a significant increase in the number of Emirati pilots, aiming for at least 35 to 40 percent of the pilot workforce to be Emirati in the coming years.