Etihad Airways To Hire Hundreds Of Pilots Amid Major Expansion Plans

Etihad Airways has announced an international roadshow to hire hundreds of pilots over the next 18 months as part of its ambitious plan to expand its route network and double its fleet by 2030.

The Abu Dhabi-based airline will commence its recruitment drive in eight European countries, including Cyprus, Bulgaria, Albania, Romania, Hungary, and Poland, before expanding globally in the following months, as stated in an announcement on Thursday.

Etihad is seeking pilots of all ranks to operate various aircraft within its fleet, including the Airbus A320, A350, and A380, as well as the Boeing 777, 787, and 777 freighter.

John Wright, the airline's chief operations and guest officer, emphasised the career development and lifestyle benefits that Etihad and Abu Dhabi offer, noting that pilots often select an airline for the duration of their careers.

In March, Etihad CEO Antonoaldo Neves revealed plans to hire 1,500 to 2,000 pilots, cabin crew, mechanics, and engineers this year to support the airline's expansion. He mentioned that hiring efforts in the latter half of the year would prepare for 2025.

Etihad aims to triple its passenger numbers to 33 million and double its fleet to 150 planes by the end of the decade, with preparations underway for a potential public listing – a first for a major Gulf airline.

The airline highlighted the significant career progression and promotion opportunities for pilots joining now, promising "extraordinary growth opportunities."

Etihad invites pilots to register their interest by attending a roadshow event or signing up for more information on its website's careers page. The roadshow will begin on June 29 in Larnaca, Cyprus, with sessions in Sofia, Tirana, Bucharest, Budapest, Warsaw, and Vilnius until July 13.

Benefits for pilots include a tax-free salary, medical and life insurance, housing allowance, schooling allowance for children, relocation allowance, and a hotel stay for the first month. Pilots will also receive additional flying and layover allowances, along with discounted tickets for themselves, family, and friends.