Celebrating Emirati Women’s Day: Etihad Airways Marks 20 Years of Empowering Women in Aviation
ABU DHABI, 28th August, 2024 (WAM) — On Emirati Women’s Day, Etihad Airways, the UAE’s national carrier, proudly commemorated its 20th anniversary by shining a spotlight on its significant achievements in promoting Emirati women within the aviation sector. This milestone not only reflects the airline’s growth but also its unwavering commitment to fostering local talent, particularly among women.
A Commitment to Gender Equality in the Workforce
Etihad Airways has made remarkable strides in creating an inclusive workplace, with nearly half of its UAE national workforce comprising Emirati women. This statistic is a testament to the airline’s dedication to gender equality and its proactive approach to developing local talent. By prioritizing the recruitment and retention of Emirati women, Etihad is setting a benchmark for other organizations in the region, demonstrating that a diverse workforce is not only beneficial but essential for success.
Nurturing Talent Through Innovative Programs
Over the past two decades, Etihad has established a reputation for nurturing Emirati talent through various programs designed to equip professionals with the skills necessary to thrive in the aviation industry. Key initiatives such as the Etihad Cadet Pilot Programme and the Graduate Manager Programme have been instrumental in providing Emirati women with the training and experience needed to excel in their careers.
Additionally, specialized training for technicians and engineers has contributed to a skilled and diverse workforce. These programs have not only empowered Emirati women but have also ensured that they are well-represented across various roles within the airline, including pilots, cabin crew, aircraft technicians, and engineers. Furthermore, Emirati women have made significant strides in core business roles and leadership positions, showcasing their versatility and capability.
Milestones in Empowerment
Etihad Airways has consistently implemented innovative strategies to empower Emirati women and strengthen the UAE workforce. Notable milestones include the establishment of the Global Business Service Solutions revenue accounting centre in Al Ain in 2016, which has created numerous job opportunities for women in the region. Additionally, the launch of the all-female Al Ain call centre in 2011 marked a significant step towards promoting female talent in aviation, providing essential training and development opportunities tailored specifically for women.
These initiatives not only highlight Etihad’s commitment to gender equality but also serve as a model for other organizations aiming to enhance female representation in traditionally male-dominated industries.
Inspirational Leadership and Contributions
Dr. Nadia Bastaki, Chief People and Corporate Affairs Officer at Etihad Airways, articulated the airline’s pride in its journey over the past 20 years. “Reflecting on our 20-year journey, we are proud to have attracted ambitious women whose dedication has been pivotal in positioning our national airline as a global leader,” she stated. Dr. Bastaki emphasized that Emirati women have excelled in operational roles, leadership positions, and as outstation managers around the world. Their contributions extend beyond their professional roles, inspiring both the UAE and the global aviation community.
A Vision for the Future
As Etihad Airways celebrates its 20th anniversary, it also looks forward to the future with a commitment to continue empowering Emirati women. The airline recognizes that the resilience and drive for change exhibited by these women are crucial in shaping the future of not only the airline but also the aviation industry and the UAE as a whole.
In conclusion, Etihad Airways’ celebration of Emirati Women’s Day and its 20th anniversary serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of gender equality in the workplace. By investing in the development of Emirati women, the airline is not only enhancing its workforce but also contributing to the broader goal of empowering women across the UAE. As the aviation sector continues to evolve, the role of Emirati women will undoubtedly be pivotal in driving innovation and excellence in the industry.