Etihad Airways Innovates with Dual Aircraft Type Certification for Pilots

Etihad Airways leads aviation innovation by qualifying pilots to fly both Airbus A350 and A380, enhancing fleet flexibility and operational efficiency.

In a groundbreaking move within the aviation industry, Etihad Airways, the flagship carrier of the United Arab Emirates, has become one of the first airlines globally to enable its pilots to operate both the Airbus A350 and A380 aircraft. This initiative places Etihad at the forefront of aviation innovation, showcasing its commitment to operational flexibility and efficiency.

The airline has introduced a Mixed Fleet Flying (MFF) program, which is supported by aircraft manufacturers and regulatory authorities, including civil aviation bodies. This program is designed to allow pilots to be cross-trained on two similar aircraft types, a significant shift from the traditional model where pilots were certified to fly only one type of aircraft at a time.

Mohammad Al Bulooki, Etihad Airways' Chief Operating Officer, highlighted the strategic importance of this achievement, stating it not only boosts the airline's operational resilience but also aligns with its focus on fleet commonality. The ability for pilots to seamlessly switch between the Airbus A350 and A380 enhances Etihad's capacity to manage its widebody fleet more effectively, offering greater versatility in route planning and aircraft deployment.

This development comes at a time when Etihad is expanding its global operations, responding to increased passenger demand, especially in Asian markets. The airline has announced plans to augment flight frequencies and capacity on several routes, including to cities in Saudi Arabia, India, Lebanon, Jordan, and Sri Lanka. Starting March 15th, enhancements to services in Jeddah and Riyadh will kick off, with further expansions set for June 15th, resulting in a 27% increase in summer capacity compared to the previous year.

Looking ahead to 2024, Etihad is preparing for significant fleet expansion, with the anticipated arrival of the first of 26 A320neo aircraft, marking a new phase in the airline's growth and modernization strategy.