Summertown Interiors completes refurbishment of Etihad Airways’ Training Academy

Summertown Interiors, the UAE’s leading fit-out contractor specialising in green interiors, has completed the refurbishment of the Etihad Airways’ Training Academy in Abu Dhabi. The contract for the emirate’s leading airline was a high-specification project that took Summertown Interiors just 14 weeks to deliver.

The refurbishment was carried out to reflect the Etihad Airways approach to hospitality – cultured, considerate, warm and generous – and to cater to its goal to become the world’s best airline. Key tasks included transforming ‘The Pilot’s Lounge’ to improve the appearance and functionality of the space, as well as modifying and upgrading the training classrooms, administration offices, pilot briefing rooms, the main reception and bathroom areas. 

Much detail was given to the auxiliary video system including the integration of the specialized custom built lecterns with projection, audio and lighting control for advanced classroom teaching methods. Additionally, a rollout of new digital signage was programmed to give live updates for staff and visitors to ensure there is a continued smooth communication process across the facility.

Careful planning also went into the 250m2 extension of the mezzanine floor to provide additional space for simulator and training equipment in the centre’s ‘safety mock-up’ area. The extension required the successful erection of a steel structure from the ground floor to the second floor, along with cast on in-situ concrete to create the extended floor space.

As a live working environment, the project needed a precision led multi phased approach to ensure continuity of operations for Etihad Airways. Summertown Interiors achieved this by maintaining a 24-hour operational cycle to ensure a fast track delivery program was implemented across all three of the training centre’s floors. Additionally, to ensure minimal disruption to the client, a separate contractor’s entrance was erected for the duration of the project. 

Rami Nazzal, Project Manager, Summertown Interiors said: “It was a pleasure to work on such a prestigious project – at Summertown we pride ourselves on our commitment to deliver high-end projects. Our transparent approach to regular progress reporting and clear communication ensured that the project met the high-end quality expectations of the client. We look forward to a continued working relationship with Etihad Airways.”