Friday, April 19, 2024
Etihad Airways celebrates the remarkable accomplishments of Captain Shareef Al Romaithi, chosen as a key crew member for MBRSC’s UAE Analog Programme’s second analog study, part of NASA’s Human Exploration Research Analog (HERA) Campaign 7 Mission 2. This mission will replicate a voyage to Mars, with Al Romaithi and fellow crew members residing and working in isolation within the HERA habitat for 45 days.
Al Romaithi embarked on his journey with Etihad Airways in 2007, joining the inaugural group of cadet pilots and subsequently rising to the rank of Captain, a historic achievement within Etihad’s cadet pilot program.
Possessing a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, Al Romaithi furthered his academic pursuits, obtaining three master’s degrees from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. These advanced degrees focus on aerospace and aviation management, safety systems, and space operations, respectively. Motivated by his passion for aviation, Al Romaithi pursued his education alongside his career as a pilot, culminating in the attainment of his PhD in aviation.
Sponsored by Etihad Airways, he completed his doctoral studies at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in 2014. Al Romaithi’s accomplishment marked a significant milestone, as he became the first Emirati to earn a PhD in this field, also being the youngest individual and only the eighth worldwide to achieve this esteemed distinction.
Dr. Nadia Bastaki, Chief People and Corporate Affairs Officer said: “We are immensely proud of Shareef’s accomplishments, which hold great significance not only for Etihad but also for the UAE nation and the aviation industry. From the start, Etihad has believed in Shareef’s abilities and his journey from cadet pilot to space explorer is a testament to his exceptional talent and determination. At Etihad we give flight to ambition and this is testimony to that purpose.
“We remain committed to supporting and nurturing national talent and pushing boundaries in the aviation industry. Shareef’s academic foundation, combined with over 16 years of experience flying various aircraft types in the Etihad fleet, has prepared him with the expertise and leadership necessary for his selection as a key crew member for the NASA simulated Mars mission. We stand ready to support Shareef as he embarks on this historic mission.”
Al Romaithi boasts considerable expertise gained through his tenure at Etihad, amassing over 9,000 flight hours across various aircraft models in both the Airbus and Boeing fleets of Etihad Airways.
Reflecting on his journey, Captain Shareef Al Romaithi, said: “Choosing to work with Etihad was one of the best decisions I’ve made. Etihad’s ambitious and growing environment allowed me to expand my knowledge and ambitions and provided me with the opportunity to work with a young and technologically advanced fleet. I’m grateful for Etihad for opening the doors for my career and academic pursuits, and for preparing me for this momentous undertaking—shaping my path from the cockpit to space exploration.”
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
