Etihad Cargo, the cargo division of Etihad Airways, has launched its first humanitarian freighter missions.
The initiatives are part of the group’s extensive Year of Zayed programme, which will take place throughout 2018, the airline said in a statement.
The specially branded Year of Zayed Boeing 777 freighter aircraft departed Abu Dhabi – first to Almaty in Kazakhstan and then to Hyderabad in India – carrying special provisions to be distributed to those in need during the holy month of Ramadan.
The humanitarian missions are taking place throughout the year in collaboration with the Khalifa Foundation, the Red Crescent, and Sheikh Sultan Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan Humanitarian & Scientific Foundation.
Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways’ CEO, said: “We are pleased to have commenced our first Year of Zayed humanitarian operations with our cargo aircraft which is crossing the globe to deliver vital items to help people most in need.
“The humanitarian missions embody the spirit and values of the UAE’s founding father, HH Sheikh Zayed, and we are proud to play a small role in carrying forward his legacy and supporting people in need from around the globe.”
In addition to its freighter humanitarian missions, Etihad has an extensive programme to commemorate the Year of Zayed themes of wisdom, sustainability and human development.
Under the theme of wisdom, guests travelling on a specific A380 Etihad Airways aircraft will enjoy a host of content and services inspired by the late Sheikh Zayed, including themed inflight entertainment, kids’ packs and a photo gallery of his life.
Another initiative will be the launch of an Abu Dhabi cultural experience. During the course of 2018, Etihad Airways will fly in 1,000 guests from around the world to experience the capital’s vibrant culture scene, including visits to the Founder’s Memorial, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Wahat al Karama, and Louvre Abu Dhabi.
Etihad Airways and the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) will also host the Abu Dhabi Birdathon, a community event featuring the greater flamingos.
Etihad will also dedicate its training facility buildings to Sheikh Zayed. The Etihad Training Academy building adjacent to the Corporate Headquarters will be renamed Zayed Campus – Abu Dhabi, and the Etihad Aviation Training facility in Al Ain will become Zayed Campus – Al Ain.
Source: Arabian Business