Job Description

Synopsis
Join Etihad Airways, one of the fastest growing airlines in the world, and play a pivotal role in our journey to 170+ aircraft by 2030.
This high-impact role offers the opportunity to shape Etihad's future fleet, cabin innovation, and complex aircraft development as we double our fleet & global airport network.
As Head of Aircraft Programs, you will be accountable for the airline's aircraft development program from concept to delivery, covering specifications and configuration, BFE/SFE Cabin development, production oversight and delivery, entry into service coordination, and major in-service retrofits within budget and specified timelines.
Accountabilities

• Accountable for the aircraft program management by ensuring successful technical specification, development, production and induction of new aircraft and BFE cabin products into the fleet.
• Responsible for ensuring the Technical Standards and Specifications of all new aircrafts meet the regulatory authority requirements laid down by UAE GCAA, EASA, & FAA as well as specification costs are maintained within project budgetary scope.
• Direct and provide expertise on the development of major products such as Cabin interior and IFE/Connectivity upgrade programs to support Linefit and Cabin Reconfigurations.
• Management of any Technical projects including the review of engineering specifications, tenders, contracts and lease agreements related to existing or planned aircraft fleets.
• Develop strategies related to cabin generation upgrades, linking in cabin product lifecycle, maintenance costs and latest trends in product design and development.
• Manage a team of senior project managers and engineers and direct the task allocation, budget management and objectives for the department and general team management functions.
• Manage senior level internal and external stakeholder with regular communication on key topics and managing escalations with suppliers and internally

Education & Experience
Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in the field of Aeronautical, Mechanical or Electrical/Electronic engineering and/or an Aircraft maintenance engineer's license (ICA0 II).
• A minimum of 15 years aviation industry experience with at least 5 years in leadership role in technical functions.
• In-depth knowledge of certification, design and Engineering regulations (Specifically GCAA and EASA), product development, financial management and project management.
• Strong leadership, communication, decision-making and problem-solving skills.
• Preferred Background: Proven track record of leading large-scale aircraft development, induction, or cabin retrofit programs within major airlines, OEMs, or Tier-1 suppliers.

Extensive stakeholder management experience, collaborating with OEMs (Airbus/Boeing), regulatory authorities, and cabin/IFE suppliers to deliver complex aircraft programs on time and within budget.
About Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, was formed in 2003 and quickly went on to become one of the world's leading airlines. From its home in Abu Dhabi, Etihad flies to passenger and cargo destinations in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia and North America. Together with Etihad's codeshare partners, Etihad's network offers access to hundreds of international destinations. In recent years, Etihad has received numerous awards for its superior service and products, cargo offering, loyalty programme and more. All this ties into Etihad's ambitious Journey 2030 strategy. The airline plans to double its fleet size and triple the number of customers over the next six years as it sets out to be the airline everyone wants to fly!
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Skills Required