Etihad Airways Welcomes Wizz Air Abu Dhabi Team During Growth Phase

ABU DHABI- Etihad Airways (EY) is making significant strides in its recruitment efforts, specifically targeting former employees of Wizz Air. This move comes as Wizz Air plans to suspend its operations in Abu Dhabi (AUH) starting September 2025.

The UAE’s national airline is organizing dedicated open-day recruitment events to help integrate affected Wizz Air staff. Open positions include roles in cabin crew, engineering, ground operations, and more, highlighting Etihad’s proactive approach to workforce integration.

Etihad’s Recruitment of Wizz Air Personnel

Etihad’s initiative to recruit former Wizz Air employees follows the latter’s decision to halt services in Abu Dhabi after reassessing its operational framework. Challenges such as aircraft engine reliability led Wizz Air to make this difficult choice, leaving around 450 local staff members seeking new opportunities.

Many of these employees face limitations on relocating due to visa restrictions. Dr. Nadia Bastaki, Chief People, Government and Corporate Affairs Officer at Etihad Aviation Group, underscored the airline’s commitment to assist aviation professionals during tough transitions.

By hosting recruitment open days, Etihad is taking definitive steps to incorporate affected staff into its workforce, reinforcing its role as a stabilizing entity within the aviation industry.

Ambitious Growth and Hiring Plans

Etihad Airways is pursuing a robust growth strategy, aiming to double both its passenger numbers and fleet size by 2030. With 101 aircraft and a workforce of 12,000 personnel, the airline plans to add 2,000 new employees each year for the next five years, thus totaling 10,000 new hires.

In alignment with these goals, the airline targets a capacity of 38 million passengers per year by 2030, expanding its fleet to 220 aircraft. The recent acquisition of its first Airbus A321LR from Hamburg showcases ongoing modernization efforts.

Etihad also aims to enhance its fleet by integrating first-class cabins across all narrow-body and wide-body aircraft by the end of the decade. This recruitment surge coincides with broader labor shortages in the aviation domain.

Trends in Recruitment Across the Industry

Etihad is part of a wider trend; Emirates Group, based in Dubai (DXB), has announced plans to recruit 17,300 employees across various roles by March 2026. This recruitment campaign includes positions for cabin crew members, pilots, engineers, cargo handlers, and ground operations personnel.

This hiring spree is reflective of the global aviation industry’s recovery and expansion, particularly following the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. With passenger demand and aircraft deliveries on the rise, workforce development is increasingly a priority for airlines regionally and globally.

Future Fleet Enhancements and Premium Products

Etihad’s future initiatives include a significant $1 billion aircraft retrofit program anticipated to kick off in late 2026 or early 2027. This will focus on upgrades for its Boeing 777s, 787-9s, Airbus A350s, and A321 classics. One of the key aspects will be incorporating lie-flat business-class seating and a fleet-wide introduction of first-class offerings.

CEO Antonoaldo Neves highlighted that their aim is to have every Etihad aircraft equipped with a first-class cabin by 2030. The first A321LR already showcases a premium first-class product, enhancing the overall passenger experience.

The Return of the Airbus A380

Etihad is also in the process of reintroducing its Airbus A380s to active duty. Seven out of ten of these double-deckers are currently operational, including a newly resumed daily service to Toronto (YYZ), which has expanded capacity on that route by 31%. Depending on profit assessments, more A380s may be brought back into service.

After grounding its A380 fleet during the pandemic, Etihad is now recognizing the aircraft’s potential for high-demand, long-distance routes.