Etihad opens 10 scholarship places in its cadet pilot programme
March 13, 2025
Etihad Airways has unveiled a new employee cadet pilot programme, offering 10 fully funded scholarships.
The initiative builds on the success of its UAE National Cadet Programme, which saw more than 2,000 applicants last year.
The new scheme allows employees from various departments – such as Cabin Crew and Flight Dispatch – to pivot to a pilot career, with a two-year training programme fully funded by the airline.
Dr Nadia Bastaki, Chief People and Corporate Affairs Officer at Etihad Airways, said: “Our growth strategy is driven by the increasing demand for skilled pilots.
“The Employee Cadet Pilot Programme plays a pivotal role in ensuring the next generation is equipped with the world-class skills and expertise needed to excel in the ever-evolving aviation industry.”
Seven out of the 10 scholarship winners are women, chosen from nearly 600 internal applicants.
Bastaki added: “As the world comes together in support of International Women’s Day, it is fitting that we celebrate the diversity of our cadet pilot intake, with seven of the ten successful candidates being women.
“At Etihad, we’re proud to give flight to ambition with this incredible opportunity for internal candidates who have the determination to take their careers to new heights.”
The candidates underwent a two-month selection process, including assessments in English, mathematics, physics, pilot aptitude, psychometrics, and medical fitness.
Their selection was announced in front of 2,500 employees at Etihad’s annual engagement forum.
One of the successful female cadets said: “I am thrilled to be selected as one of the candidates because I can show my son that dreams really can come true.”
Captain Fahad Alseiari, Head of the Cadet Pilot Programme, explained how the training will be structured: “The primary objective of the Cadet Pilot Programme is to develop world-class pilots who align with Etihad Airways’ operational and safety standards.
“The programme sets the standard for pilot training, blending comprehensive theoretical education with practical flying experience. By using the latest aircraft models and technologies, we ensure our cadets are well-prepared for the demands of modern aviation.”
Training will take place in both the UAE and Spain, combining classroom-based learning with full flight simulator sessions.
