Etihad Airways Appoints First Emirati Woman Pilot Instructor

Etihad Airways has celebrated a new milestone in the UAE's aviation history with Captain Huda Al Musallami becoming the nation's first Emirati woman pilot instructor. This appointment signifies a major advancement for Emirati women in the aviation sector and underscores the UAE's dedication to fostering opportunities for women in specialized and leadership roles.

Al Musallami's aviation career began in 2003, and she joined Etihad Airways in 2014. She progressed from co-pilot to Captain in 2023 and qualified as a certified pilot instructor in 2026. Certified to fly the Boeing 787, she has accumulated over 10,000 flight hours and extensive experience with Airbus A330 and A340, as well as the Boeing 777.

In her new capacity, Al Musallami will be responsible for preparing and qualifying pilots at various career stages. She has already begun training pilots of diverse nationalities and experience levels. She views this role as both a professional responsibility and a national duty, aiming to impart her two decades of aviation knowledge and experience.

Dr. Nadia Bastaki, Chief Human Resources, Government and Organisational Affairs Officer at Etihad Airways, praised Al Musallami's achievement, stating it exemplifies what can be accomplished when talent, determination, and opportunity converge. "At Etihad Airways, we fly the ambitions of our beloved nation high, and Captain Huda’s achievement is the best example of what talent creates when combined with determination and opportunity," Bastaki remarked. She added that Al Musallami is paving the way for more Emirati women in aviation and contributing to the development of future pilots for the national carrier.

Al Musallami's success aligns with the UAE leadership's vision for empowering women to become pioneers across various fields. Currently, Emirati women constitute 75 percent of the airline's Emirati workforce, holding positions in both administrative and operational functions, including cockpit roles and senior decision-making capacities. As the UAE solidifies its status as a global aviation hub, Etihad Airways highlighted Al Musallami's appointment as a testament to its commitment to inclusivity and excellence.

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At Etihad Airways, we fly the ambitions of our beloved nation high, and Captain Huda’s achievement is the best example of what talent creates when combined with determination and opportunity.