Our People
Our people power our business, helping us bring the world to Abu Dhabi and shape the future of aviation. While COVID-19 has presented considerable challenges across the globe, it has also inspired a spirit of resilience among our Etihad family. These are some of our stories of positivity, perseverance, and innovation.
Khalil Lari Manager Innovation, Additive Manufacturing & Business Development, Engineering
"I celebrated 10 years with the Etihad Engineering family this year. As I reminisce on the past decade, I think of all the people I have met and the achievements we have celebrated as a team. One of my most memorable moments is a recent one, when at the wake of the pandemic, we as the engineering team came together as one to support our local healthcare workers. We spent hours talking to frontline workers to understand the challenges they faced while wearing PPE face shields. Many told us how uncomfortable they often felt wearing the shields for longs periods of time. We then conceptualised and created prototypes in less than ten days using Etihad’s 3D printing machines. We personally tested every single prototype for comfort, fit and durability until we had a face shield we were all proud of. Even after all these years, I still learn something new at work. My experience at Etihad has taught me that your capabilities are not limited to your profession. If you have the passion and drive, you can make a difference."
Alia Al Shamsi, Cargo
"Yes, I’m a woman. Yes, I am Emirati. Yes, I work for the Etihad Cargo operations team. It often comes as a surprise to many people that my day-to-day tasks require long hours and night shifts, and under all weather conditions. As demanding as it can be, I wouldn’t change the last 8 years for anything. Growing up, my mother was my inspiration and role model. She taught me that determination and persistence would help me achieve anything I set my mind to. It was this thinking that helped me land my dream job as a Quality Officer. My responsibilities include overseeing shipment loads and ensuring they reach the right people, at the right destinations, at the right time. No shipment is ever the same and there are various stakeholders involved throughout the process. Today, I am proud of what the Cargo industry has achieved. During the coronavirus pandemic, we have been instrumental in flying more than 775,000 tonnes of medical aid to countries around the world in need. Our UAE leaders have always taught us to lend a helping hand. This is why I am more motivated than ever before to do the very best work that I can. When the day is done, there is no greater joy than seeing my country’s flag fly high in the sky."
Leonardo Magallanes Carlo Magno, First Officer
"Following the temporary suspension of all flights, we received an email calling for pilots to volunteer for Cargo and Special Etihad Flights that were continuing to operate. I didn’t think twice. I wanted to do anything I could to help during these difficult times. The flights took stranded passengers back home and deliverred food and aid to countries in need. My wife and two daughters were the first to support me, even if that meant I wouldn’t see them for up to 35 days at a time, given the mandatory isolation period. I remember hugging them goodbye and promising to video call them every single day. While it has been difficult not seeing my girls, knowing that I am making a difference is extremely rewarding. I’ve seen families reunite and witnessed the impact humanitarian efforts can make across the world. Times like this make me hopeful of the future. During layovers, the Internet has been my best friend. As promised, I am constantly video calling the family, helping with homework whenever I can, talking to my wife as she cooks, and sending as many virtual hugs to them as I can. While in the air, I continue to appreciate the technology behind these beautiful birds we fly, especially when they are helping individuals and entire nations. I have been fortunate to work as a pilot for the last 25 years, and even more fortunate to have the privilege of helping others. The world will travel again, and when our guests are ready to explore, I will be the first to volunteer to take them to the sky."