Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, announced plans to bolster its workforce by hiring up to 2,000 new employees in 2024. This significant recruitment drive comes in anticipation of the airline's projected growth in 2025, which includes the addition of 15 new aircraft to its fleet.
"We're looking to bring in about 1,500 to 2,000 people this year to prepare for 2025," said Etihad CEO Antonoaldo Neves. "These new additions will be crucial in supporting our expansion plans, which involve acquiring new aircraft and increasing flight frequencies and destinations."
The new hires will primarily comprise pilots, cabin crew, and maintenance personnel, roles critical to the airline's day-to-day operations and future growth. The recruitment process is expected to be spread throughout the year, with a focus on training new pilots and cabin crew in the latter half to ensure they are prepared for the 2025 expansion.
Etihad's decision to ramp up its workforce reflects its optimism about the aviation industry's post-pandemic recovery. The airline saw a significant improvement in passenger traffic in 2023, with its load factor (the percentage of available seats filled) rising to 86% compared to 82% in the previous year. This positive momentum, coupled with the airline's ambitious expansion plans, necessitates the addition of skilled personnel across various departments.
The recruitment drive is also expected to contribute positively to the UAE's job market. With thousands of new positions opening up, Etihad's hiring spree presents a promising opportunity for both local and international talent seeking careers in the aviation industry. The airline's focus on training and development programs further enhances its appeal to potential employees, offering them the chance to learn, grow, and contribute to the success of a major global airline.
Etihad's expansion plans and subsequent workforce additions come at a time when the aviation industry is experiencing a gradual yet steady recovery. As travel restrictions ease and passenger confidence returns, airlines are strategically investing in their operations to meet the growing demand for air travel. Etihad's proactive approach in bolstering its workforce positions them well to capitalize on this positive trend and further solidify their position as a leading player in the global aviation landscape.