Etihad Airways becomes first to enable pilots to fly both A350 and A380 aircraft

Thursday, February 15, 2024

Etihad Airways has marked a significant achievement in the aviation industry by enabling its pilots to operate both Airbus A350 and A380 aircraft interchangeably. This pioneering move, following rigorous regulatory approvals and comprehensive pilot training, places Etihad among the first airlines globally to offer such operational flexibility in its flight crew capabilities.

Typically, airline pilots are certified to fly only one type of aircraft due to the specific technical and procedural requirements of each model. However, through a specialized program known as Mixed Fleet Flying (MFF), pilots can be authorized to fly two different but similar aircraft types. This requires the flight decks and pilot procedures to be highly similar across the aircraft types, coupled with specialized training approved by both the aircraft manufacturer and the Civil Aviation Authority.

Mohammad Al Bulooki, Etihad Airways’ Chief Operating Officer, emphasized the significance of this achievement, stating it not only boosts the resilience and flexibility of the airline’s network but also underscores Etihad’s commitment to efficiency, innovation, customer satisfaction, and, foremost, safety.

This accomplishment builds on Etihad’s previous successes in obtaining similar approvals for its Airbus pilots to fly the A320 and A330, as well as the A330 and A340 types interchangeably. Similarly, its Boeing pilots have been qualified to operate both the 777 and 787 types. The latest approval for A350 and A380 operations further enhances the efficiency and adaptability of Etihad’s widebody fleet, setting new standards for pilot training and fleet commonality in the aviation industry.

Etihad’s initiative to qualify pilots for multiple aircraft types reflects the airline’s forward-thinking approach to flight operations, offering a testament to its dedication to leading through innovation. This strategic move not only provides operational flexibility but also allows for better management of pilot resources across its global network, ensuring the airline remains at the forefront of the competitive aviation market.

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