Etihad Airways Engages With Emirati Youth at Think Science Fair 2016

As part of its commitment to support the UAE youth development program, Etihad Airways, the national airline of UAE, will be promoting career opportunities for Emiratis in the fields of engineering and flight operations at Think Science 2016.

Organised by Emirates Foundation, an independent local philanthropic organisation, the three day annual event takes place at Dubai World Trade Centre from 17 to 19 of April 2016.

Captain Salah Al Farajalla, Etihad Airways’ Senior Vice President Security and National Pilot Development, said: “UAE youth are a vital pillar of the country’s development. We are committed to empower them with knowledge and learning resources to ensure a sustainable future for the nation.

“We are showcasing our engineering and pilot programs which rely on scientific understanding. We hope that by taking part, our talented young Emirati men and women will improve their understanding of science and technology, encourage them to continue their studies in science, and consider careers in science, engineering and technology. Perhaps in the exciting world of aviation with Etihad Airways.”

Combining science, fun, and hands on experiences, the event aims to develop further interest in science, and connect young Emirati with companies that have science and technology at their core.

Etihad Airways’ stand at the event features a flight simulator offering students an opportunity to experience what it’s like to pilot an aircraft. Etihad Airways cadet pilots will be there to answer questions and discuss what a career in aviation can offer.

Also on the stand is a jet engine model and toolkit. Etihad Airways engineers will be on hand to teach students about the workings of an engine and how critical the role is within the airline.

Etihad Airways will organise a daily challenge at the flight simulator. The top two competitors from each day’s challenge will be invited to experience the state-of-the-art full motion simulators at Etihad Airways Training Academy.

There will also be an exciting competition to win a group visit to Etihad Airways aircraft maintenance facility. Students from different schools will be competing to demonstrate a wire locking technique to win the visit for the entire class.

Ebrahim Al Hammadi, an Etihad Airways cadet pilot, said: “I’m very happy to take part at Think Science fair. This is a great opportunity to encourage young Emirati to consider the exciting career I have chosen. I’m looking forward to engaging with potential future pilots and engineers of Etihad Airways.”

As a premier sponsor, Etihad Airways will be on the judging panel of Think Science 2016 competition. Participants must develop and build science based solutions to practical problems. All projects will be presented to the judging panel and the winners will be announced on the last day of the event.

Etihad Airways signed a three-year agreement with Emirates Foundation’s and pledged AED1.5 million to support the Foundation’s youth-focused programs in September 2015.