Govt Announces Deal With Etihad Airways To Hire Kenyan Pilots
Mutua announced this following his engagement on Monday evening, December 16 where he joined the celebration of the resumption of flights to Kenya by the national airline of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Marvin Chege 
Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua on Tuesday, December 17 announced that the government had reached an agreement with Etihad Airways to hire professionals in the aviation industry in Kenya, including pilots.
Mutua announced this following his engagement on Monday evening, December 16 where he joined the celebration of the resumption of flights to Kenya by the national airline of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
"This milestone reflects growing confidence in Kenya’s economy. Recently, we also welcomed Brussels Airlines, Zambia Airlines, and Air Asia, signalling that Kenya’s economy is expanding and remains a prime destination for business," he announced in a statement.
Passengers disembarking from an Etihad Airways flight at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi on December 15, 2024. /X
The CS remarked that the airlines bring numerous job opportunities for Kenyans, particularly in Nairobi.
He added that in the agreement, the government and Etihad would carry out roadshows across the country aimed at recruiting qualified Kenyans to work with them.
"Moreover, we have agreed with Etihad Airlines to hold a recruitment roadshow in Kenya this coming January. The initiative will focus on hiring Kenyan pilots, engineers, cabin crew, and ground handling personnel," he added, further commending Etihad for its efficiency and exceptional service.
The inaugural flight from Abu Dhabi was welcomed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Sunday, December 15 by KAA Board Chairman, Caleb Kositany, alongside other esteemed dignitaries.
This new route enhances connectivity between the UAE and Kenya, making travel more accessible for both business and leisure travellers. With four weekly nonstop flights, passengers can now easily explore the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes of Nairobi.
Etihad’s Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, Arik De, highlighted the significance of the new route in enhancing the airline’s global network. He emphasized the strong travel demand between the UAE and Kenya, as evidenced by the inaugural flight’s full capacity.
De pointed out that the service aligns with Abu Dhabi’s goal of positioning itself as a premier aviation hub and supports Kenya’s rapidly expanding tourism market.
Kenya is experiencing significant tourism growth, with visitor numbers projected to hit 3 million in 2024 and ambitious targets of 5 million visitors in the coming years.
The new service enables greater accessibility for global travellers to explore Kenya’s rich natural and cultural heritage while providing UAE residents and tourists with seamless connectivity to one of Africa’s most vibrant cities.
The Nairobi route is part of an exceptional year for Etihad Airways, which saw the addition of nine other destinations in 2024, including Antalya, Bali, Boston, Jaipur, and Mykonos.
Looking ahead to 2025, the airline plans to launch services to 13 additional destinations, such as Warsaw, Prague, Taipei, Chiang Mai, and Algiers, further expanding its reach across Europe, Asia, and Africa.
